HEALTHLIFESTYLE

Dry Eye Facts & What You Should Know

Uncomfortable and quite annoying, dry eyes can be painful. While many experience this disorder, there are a few dry eye facts that those who suffer from dry eyes should be aware of before the next attack.

Dry Eye Symptoms

While it seems self-explanatory, there are a few symptoms associated with dry eye.

  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Burning
  • Blurred vision

When the eye is lacking moisture, other symptoms start to generate and cause discomfort. Redness from the constant itching and burning in the eyes will start to form. Also, vision in the eye will start to blur, making it difficult to see anything in front of you. If tears are not able to form quickly enough then these symptoms will prolong and continue to develop. Those who develop dry eye symptoms regularly, usually carry artificial tears or eye drops to get relief and ease the stress on the affected eye.

Dry Eyes Are Common

Millions of people in the United States alone suffer from dry eyes regularly. This is especially true during the popular allergy season when the body is working against the pollen invasion of the sinuses. They affect men and women, citizens of all backgrounds and races, and even set their sights on children. Whether it is a seasonal issue or something much longer, several people you know experience the same pain.

Dry Eyes Are Chronic

Unfortunately, once you experience dry eyes, you are probably going to experience them again. One of the biggest dry eye facts is that it is a recurring condition. For whatever reason, your body is not producing enough tears to maintain the required wet level, or the tears are not forming correctly. This can be caused by a number of factors inside your body, and the lack of tears is a direct result. As you get older, this will happen more frequently, requiring you to be one of those who carry around eye drops as a necessity.

Dry Eyes And Autoimmune Diseases

Many of those who suffer from dry eyes also suffer from autoimmune diseases. Like dry eyes, they have to chronically suffer from that disorder suffering from the side effect known as dry eyes. Their bodies are working to produce the right hormone, protein, or something else that takes a priority over tear production. As a result, the decrease in tear function will continue to cause dry eyes during spells when the body is focusing on other functions.

Screen Time Increases Dry Eyes

Due to the excessive use of smartphones and mobile devices, those who have not experienced the pain of dry eyes are now falling victim. With long periods of time spent on these devices, they are blinking let, which is allowing their eyes to dry out and the itching start. This is another reason why it is critical to take a break from your phone regularly.

Eye Makeup Absorbs Moisture

Wearing eye makeup regularly and for long periods around your eyes can also stimulate dry eyes. Mascara, eye shadow, and eyeliner all absorb moisture throughout the day. This allows them to run and they gather in the tear ducts, clogging them and preventing them from distributing tears properly. Without the right amount of tears dispersing, the itching, redness, and blurred vision will follow shortly.

Prepare Yourself Against Dry Eyes

Whether you experience this disorder regularly or seasonally, it is a good practice to carry around eye drops for pain relief when this happens. While it can be painful it is something that is common. Protect your eyes as much as possible to prevent dry eyes from flaring up. Do not let it go untreated. Reach out to your local optometrist today for additional relief.