Dry eyes can be annoying, especially when they turn red or feel gritty and irritated. On top of that, you can experience itchiness and blurred vision. Those experiencing dry eye symptoms may want to seek medical treatment.
Dry eye treatment is necessary for those who continuously experience dry eyes. Although there are many reasons why dry eye occurs, certain medications or treatments can help reduce dryness.
Medical Treatment for Dry Eyes
There are a few reasons why medical treatment may be necessary for dry eyes. This includes tears drying up too quickly and glands not working correctly, which can stop tear production. When lubrication stops, the eyes no longer stay wet, and irritation begins.
Medical treatment may be a necessity and is available in the form of punctual plugs, which help keep tears in the eyes. Additionally, some cases require surgery. If eyelids are too loose, eyes can drain too quickly. Surgery is not very common but can be helpful for those with severe dry-eye symptoms.
Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Dry eye symptoms range from mild to severe. According to the National Eye Institute, dry eye can cause the following:
- Blurry vision
- Red eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- A scratchy, gritty feeling
- Irritation
- Itching
- Excessive watering
- Stinging or burning sensations
If you often experience any of the above, you may need medical treatment for dry eyes.
Types of Medical Treatments for Dry Eye
There are various medical treatments to consider if you suffer from dry eye symptoms. Although eyedrops can be helpful, they sometimes do not provide adequate treatment. Medication can be prescribed if the condition is more serious.
Some of the types of medical treatments for dry eye include:
- Over-the-counter eye drops, gels, or ointments that lubricate the eyes
- Prescription medications such as cyclosporine or lifitegrast that help your eyes make more tears
- Lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking, using a humidifier, limiting your screen time, and drinking plenty of water
- Tear duct plugs to help keep tears in the eyes and remain lubricated
- Surgery for the eyelids if they are too loose and do not wet the eyes properly
The treatment that is right for you may not be the same as the one that works for someone else. This is why it is important to speak with a healthcare professional about individualized treatment plans.
Untreated Dry Eyes
When dry eyes are left untreated for an extended period, numerous complications can occur. Although complications range in severity, they may consist of:
- Itching
- Irritation
- Excessive watering
- Blurry vision
- Gritty or sandy feeling in the eye
- Damage to the cornea
- Burning
- Eye infections
Even if symptoms are mild, you should still seek treatment to prevent further damage to your eyes.
The Risk Factors for Dry Eye
There are several risk factors for dry eye, including behavioral, environmental, and medical factors. Risk factors for dry eye include:
- Environmental factors such as pollution, cigarette smoke, chemical fumes, high altitude, and low humidity
- Behavioral factors such as drinking alcohol, eating an unhealthy diet, smoking, or experiencing poor sleep
- Medical conditions such as hereditary diseases, nerve damage, diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Sjogren syndrome
The many factors above can influence the severity of your dry eye. To protect the eyes, consider using eyedrops conservatively and avoiding irritants such as strong winds.
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