Dry Eye
Tears are important for both vision and the health of your eye. Dry
eye is a condition that occurs when you do not generate an adequate supply of
tears or when those you have do not possess the appropriate chemical condition.
Symptoms include:
- Eyes that are irritated, burning, dry, scratchy, uncomfortable, or red
- Blurry vision
- The sensation that something is in your eye
Severe dry eye can affect vision, scar the cornea, hurt the tissue
of your eyes, and make it hard to wear contact lenses. Some possible causes
behind this condition are:
- Aging
- Certain medications (such as antihistamines, oral contraceptives, and antidepressants)
- Windy, dusty, or dry conditions
- Chemical/thermal burn in eye
- Certain health problems (such as Sjogren's syndrome or arthritis)
- Problems with blinking/eyelid
Your optometrist may diagnose dry eye during an examination. There
is no cure, but treatment can help you maintain your eye health and prevent the
condition from impacting your vision. Treatment may consist of the following:
- Increased blinking
- Increased humidity
- Use of moisturizing ointment/artificial tears
- Slowing tear drainage by placing small plugs in eye corners
- Drainage ducts closed through surgery
Proper vision care is vital for both adults and children, yet it is often overlooked because of the cost. You may be able to save a substantial amount of money through an insurance program, such as the vision plans offered through HumanaOne.
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