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Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye is a common eye condition in which the normal production or presence of tears is insufficient or disrupted. Dry eye affects not only one’s comfort, but can lead to more serious eye concerns. It also affects daily activities and can decrease visual clarity.

What Causes Dry Eye?

The causes of dry eye symptoms are more easily determined when they relate to lifestyle and environmental considerations. However, many times the cause lies deeper within the functions of the eye itself. When Dry Eye is caused by underlying factors, it is usually due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). For more information on MGD, click here.

Dry eye irritation can be caused by external factors, or by anatomical and physiological influences. Symptoms may come in the form of dryness, itching, burning, scratching, a feeling like “something is in your eye,” excessive watering, etc. The following are some of the conditions or causes of irritation:

External Factors:

  • Weather conditions, such as heat, wind or dry-circulated air
  • Work environment, such as extended computer use
  • Chemical or air pollutants
  • Foreign object
  • Friction or Injury

Internal Factors:

  • Poor tear film quality, including meibomian and lacrimal gland dysfunction
  • Anatomical presentations, such as incomplete eyelid closure, inward facing eyelashes, bumps or growths on the inner eyelids
  • Health conditions, medications or hormonal fluctuations
  • Some eye procedures, such as LASIK and other corneal refractive surgeries

In order to determine the cause of your dry eye, your eye doctor will perform specific evaluations and examinations. He or she will then recommend the best treatment plan. If you think you have Dry Eye Disease, or are experiencing the symptoms described above, contact Eyes For Life to schedule an eye exam today!  

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