If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from dry eyes, you know how uncomfortable and frustrating it can be. The constant itching, burning, and irritation can make even simple tasks like reading or watching TV a challenge. But can dry eyes be cured permanently? That’s a common question among patients who are seeking relief from this common condition. In this blog post, we’ll explore factors that contribute to dry eyes, treatment options for managing symptoms, and whether dry eyes can be cured permanently.
What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor. This can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including redness, itching, burning, sensitivity to light, blurry vision, and a gritty feeling in your eyes. In some cases, dry eye may be a temporary issue caused by factors like environmental conditions or certain medications. However, for many people, dry eye is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. If left untreated, chronic dry eye can damage the surface of your eyes and affect your vision.
Common causes of dry eyes
The most common cause of dry eyes is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). This means the glands in your eyelids can no longer produce an essential part of your tears. Other causes of dry eye include age-related changes in your eyes, certain medications, underlying health issues like thyroid conditions and diabetes, and hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy or after menopause). Environmental factors like dry air, wind, or air conditioning can also contribute to dry eyes.
Treating dry eye syndrome
Artificial tears are often recommended as a first-line treatment to help lubricate the eyes and provide relief from symptoms. In more severe cases, prescription eye drops or ointments may be necessary to reduce inflammation and stimulate tear production. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and taking regular breaks from screens can also help relieve symptoms. Your eye doctor may also suggest punctal plugs, which are tiny devices placed in your tear ducts to keep tears on the surface of your eyes longer.
Dry eye can severely impact your quality of life. While chronic dry eye is very common, you don’t have to suffer from the symptoms any longer. During an eye exam at Northwest Hills Eye Care, our dry eye specialists in Austin and Round Rock, Texas can diagnose dry eye, identify its triggers and causes, and discuss treatment options to suit your needs. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment with our experts.
