 |
|
 |
 |
 |
|
| HOMECHRONIC DRY EYE: A CLOSER LOOKFAQsQUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTORRESOURCES & LINKS | ||
 |
Frequently Asked Questions of Chronic Dry Eye
What is Chronic Dry Eye?Chronic Dry Eye is known by the scientific name, keratoconjunctivitis sicca. It is a condition that, overtime, decreases the eye’s ability to produce tears. Tears help protect the surface of the eye and keep it moist and lubricated. Reduced tear production can lead to damage to the eye’s surface. If left untreated, severe forms of Chronic Dry Eye can lead to more serious problems, including increased risk of infection and possibly vision impairment. What are the causes of Dry Eye?Chronic Dry Eye is caused by a functional problem in the tear-making glands of the eye. This results in a declining quantity and quality of tears. High risk factors for this condition include those individuals with health issues such as hormonal changes associated with aging and menopause, autoimmune diseases such as arthritis, lupus and Sjögren's syndrome. Medical conditions such as diabetes or blocked tear ducts also can contribute to it. Are allergies and weather conditions a cause of dry eye?Environmental, occupational and lifestyle factors, such as allergies, smoke, dry air, dust, the wearing of contact lenses for extended periods of time or prolonged computer use can aggravate Chronic Dry Eye, but they are not the cause. The cause of Dry Eye is a dysfunction of the tear producing glands which results in reduced production of tears. How do I know if I have Chronic Dry Eye?Your eye doctor can check your eyes for clinical signs of Chronic Dry Eye. He or she also may use several quick and painless tests to measure visual clarity, tear production, eye surface dryness and damage to the cornea or conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids). The doctor will find it helpful if you describe your condition in detail. Be sure to tell your doctor if you experience dryness, itchiness, the persistent feeling you have “something in your eye,” have difficulty reading, watching TV, or other activities associated with eye sight. What treatments are available for Chronic Dry Eye?It's important to ask your eye doctor what Dry eye treatments are available in addition to over-the-counter artificial tears. What do artificial tears do?Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide quick but temporary symptom relief and help lubricate eyes. Some over-the-counter artificial tears, designed for cosmetic improvement of the eye’s appearance, may actually worsen the condition and also may create potential eye health problems if used too frequently. It’s always wise to ask your doctor before using any dry eye treatment on your eye. |
|
|
|
||
