Dry eye is sneaky. For most patients with dry eye, their eyes never actually feel dry. Instead they are bothered by post nasal drip, a burning sensation, constantly runny nose, blurry vision or watery eyes. Some experience multiple symptoms and others may only experience one. Either way the symptoms are real and can interfere with the ability to comfortably perform daily activities. Dry eye has many causes both external (air conditioning, staring at a computer all day, dusty environments) and internal (hormones, medications, inflammation.) When the eye feels dry or irritated it creates wimpy, watery tears to soothe itself. They offer temporary relief, but usually just drain out the side of the eye or drip through the sinuses and create post nasal drip or a runny nose.
The ultimate goal when treating dry eye is to help the eye create thicker, healthier tears. This is accomplished in three steps. First, by cleaning the eyelids daily to remove dust and debris so it does not further irritate the eye. Second, increase Omega-3 intake as it is a major component in healthy tears. Finally, regular visits with your optometrist so he or she can monitor the condition and prescribe a medicated drop if necessary.
Dry eye can start off as a mild annoyance and become increasingly bothersome. Early treatment is the best! So don’t let dry eye sneak up on you.
