Dry eye is a common and chronic issue where there aren't enough quality tears to properly lubricate the eye. Tears are necessary to nourish and moisturize the cornea, reduce the risk of eye infection, wash away foreign matter, and keep your vision healthy and clear. Fortunately, this condition can be treated and prevented through proper eye care. Here is a guide to dry eye, as well as the causes, treatments, and prevention. 

Causes and Risk Factors

Dry eye is caused by a number of factors. Age, gender, medication, medical conditions, environmental factors, long-term use of contact lenses, and refractive eye surgery can all play a part. Inadequate or low-quality tears occur when production and drainage are not in balance. While tear production does tend to diminish with age, tear volume can decrease as a result of tear evaporation as well. 

How It Is Treated

Dry eye is a chronic condition. However, a doctor can prescribe a variety of eye care treatments that will help manage the symptoms and provide relief. Over-the-counter artificial tears are a common and simple treatment that supplements one's own natural production. Conserving tears involves blocking the tear ducts where tears naturally drain to keep natural tears in the eye longer.

Increasing tear production can be achieved through medicated eye drops designed to increase tear production. Lastly, treating eyelid or ocular surface inflammation through warm compresses, eyelid massages, or eyelid cleansers will help decrease inflammation and restore normal lubrication. 

How to Prevent It

The best way to prevent dry eyes is to blink regularly, especially when looking at a screen for long periods of time. Avoiding dry environments with high humidity like deserts, airplanes, and high altitudes will help preserve the moisture of your eyes. Wearing wraparound sunglasses will reduce the effects of drying winds, and taking nutritional supplements can help reduce dry eye symptoms. Staying hydrated by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water regularly helps the body produce a healthy volume of tears naturally. 

For personalized, friendly service and superior eye care, families in Monroe, GA, choose Walton Eye Care. From routine eye exams to specialized tests, these experienced professionals provide the highest caliber of care paired with cutting-edge technology. Their extensive range of general and surgical services includes cataract surgery and treatment for dry eye disease, to name a couple. These eye specialists also offer the latest and best in cosmetic eye surgical procedures, including eye lifts, cosmetic fillers, and Botox®. To speak to a helpful staff member today, call (770) 267-4561 or visit them online.