Have you noticed your eyes feeling chronically dry or itchy? Many people do not know they have these symptoms until they become unbearable. Unfortunately, you may be suffering from a condition called dry eye syndrome, in which you do not produce enough tears for lubrication. This leads to eye redness, burning eyes, or eye irritation.
Dry eye syndrome can have a significant impact on your lifestyle and impede activities, like reading or working on the computer. If this problem does not go away on its own, contact Nevada Eye Physicians in Las Vegas, Henderson, Mesquite, Boulder City, and Pahrump, NV. Our eye care specialists can explain the symptoms and teach you how to prevent dry eyes.
What causes dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is characterized by a lack of proper lubrication through tears. Tears are essential for good eye health and vision. Your tears also wash away foreign particles while keeping the surface of the eye smooth. If tear glands produce fewer tears or tears that do not have the right chemical balance, dry areas form. This condition can be caused by a number of factors, including environmental factors or some medications.
Symptoms of dry eye syndrome
Many symptoms of dry eye syndrome involve dryness and burning eyes, as well as eye irritation. Eye redness is also common. You may feel as if there is a foreign object in your eye or experience eye fatigue easily. Patients who wear corrective contact lenses may have discomfort when wearing them. Another common symptom is blurred vision that clears when you blink. If you have one or more of these signs, Nevada Eye Physicians can perform an exam and show you how to prevent dry eyes.
How to reduce symptoms
Did you know that certain prescription or over-the-counter medications can lead to dry eye syndrome? These include antidepressants, birth control pills, and acne medications. In these cases, reducing or stopping your medication could lessen your dry eye symptoms. However, you should never stop any prescription without the approval of your primary care physician.
You may also change your environment to reduce dry eye symptoms. Factors that can exacerbate symptoms include:
- Wearing contact lenses for longer than suggested
- Extended use of computers or other screens
- Exposure to dry or windy climates
- Exposure to smoke
- High altitudes
Dry eye treatment options
If you have dry eye symptoms, such as eye redness, burning eyes, or eye irritation, make an appointment with Nevada Eye Physicians in Las Vegas. Our diagnosis and treatment options are based on your comprehensive eye examination, medical history, and personal circumstances. We may suggest over-the-counter lubricating artificial tears for mild to moderate cases of dry eye. Thick gels and ointments can also be used at night while you sleep.
Learn how to prevent dry eyes
The most essential thing to know about dry eyes is that you do not have to deal with them forever. Treatment options are available to increase moisture and reduce discomfort. If you would like to learn about dry eye syndrome and how it affects your vision, call Nevada Eye Physicians in Las Vegas, Henderson, Mesquite, Boulder City, and Pahrump, NV. We are proud to help you get the relief you deserve.
