Dry Eye

Dry eye is a prevalent condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It occurs when the eyes fail to produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too rapidly, leading to discomfort and potential vision problems. Dry eye can be a chronic and progressive condition, significantly impacting one's quality of life if left untreated.

Causes of Dry Eye

Two primary causes of dry eye are meibomian gland dysfunction and blepharitis. These conditions are closely related and often occur together, exacerbating dry eye symptoms.

The meibomian glands are located in the eyelids and produce an oily substance called meibum, which is a crucial component of the tear film. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) occurs when these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, leading to an insufficient or abnormal production of meibum. This disrupts the tear film, causing tears to evaporate more rapidly, resulting in dry eye symptoms.

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids, which can be caused by bacterial infections, allergies, or other underlying conditions. This inflammation can affect the meibomian glands, leading to MGD and, consequently, dry eye. Blepharitis can also cause crusting, redness, and irritation of the eyelids, further exacerbating dry eye symptoms.

Other factors that can contribute to dry eye include:

Aging
Hormonal changes
(e.g., menopause)
Certain medications
(e.g., antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications)
Medical conditions
(e.g., Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders)
Environmental factors
(e.g., low humidity, wind, smoke, air conditioning)
Chronic Eye Inflammation
History of Surgery
(e.g., prior history of refractive surgery such as LASIK, cataract or glaucoma surgery)

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye can manifest with a range of symptoms, varying in severity from mild discomfort to significant vision problems.

Common symptoms include:

Eye dryness, irritation, or a gritty sensation
Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
Redness or inflammation of the eyes
Blurred vision or eye fatigue
Increased sensitivity to light
Excessive tearing
Difficulty wearing contact lenses

Diagnosing Dry Eye

If you suspect you may have dry eye, it's essential to consult your optometrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The diagnostic process typically includes the following components:

Symptom Evaluation

We will inquire about the patient's symptoms, such as dryness, irritation, redness, fluctuating vision, and sensitivity to light. Providing detailed information about the frequency and severity of symptoms can aid in the diagnosis.

Medical History

A thorough review of the patient's medical history, including any preexisting conditions, medications, and environmental factors, is essential in understanding potential underlying causes of dry eye.

Tear Film Evaluation

The quality and quantity of the tear film are assessed through various tests, such as tear breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer's test, and tear osmolarity measurement. These tests help determine the stability and production of tears.

Ocular Surface Examination

Your optometrist will examine the ocular surface for signs of dryness, inflammation, corneal damage, and the presence of meibomian gland dysfunction, which can contribute to evaporative dry eye.

Assessment of Blinking and Tear Drainage

Observing the patient's blinking pattern and tear drainage function provides valuable insights into tear distribution and ocular surface protection.

Specialized Tests

In some cases, additional diagnostic tests, such as ocular surface staining with dyes like fluorescein and lissamine green, may be performed to assess corneal and conjunctival health.

Based on the results of these tests, your eye doctor will determine the severity of your dry eye and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

Depending on the severity and underlying causes of your dry eye, your optometrist may recommend various treatment options:

Heated eye masks
Lid cleansers or disinfectants
Artificial tears and/or ointments
Prescription eye drops
Topical or oral medications
Punctal plugs
Scleral lenses

The most appropriate treatment plan will depend on the underlying causes, severity, and individual factors of your dry eye condition. Our eye care team will work closely with you to determine the best course of action.

At Roosevelt Vision, our team of experienced optometrists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for dry eye. We understand the discomfort and potential complications associated with dry eye, and we strive to offer personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff will work closely with you every step of the way, providing personalized care and support throughout your dry eye journey.