Even when dry eyes are common, if left untreated, they can have a major impact on one’s quality of life. It happens when the surface of the eye is not properly lubricated and moistened. People of all ages may experience this discomfort, which can vary in intensity from little annoyance to excruciating pain. At Sohana Hospital, we recognise the value of treating the causes of dry eyes as well as offering efficient therapies to enhance our patient’s general health and eye health.

What are the causes of Dry Eyes?

Several factors that lead to the development of Dry Eyes. Understanding the cause of Dry Eyes is important to determine which treatment approach should be taken according to the intensity of the condition you go through:

• Environmental Factors: Dry or windy climates, air conditioning and heating can evaporate the tears more quickly, which leads to dryness.
• Aging: As we are aging our bodies will start producing less tears making our eyes more dry open to dry eye syndrome.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorder, and vitamin A deficiency can contribute to dry eyes.
• Medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and birth control pills, can reduce tear production.
• Extended Screen Time: Staring at screens for prolonged periods without blinking enough can lead to dry eyes due to reduced tear production.
• Contact Lenses: Improper use or wearing contact lenses for extended periods can cause dry eyes.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Symptoms of dry eyes can lead to early action and prevent pain from increasing.

• Constant dryness, itching, or burning sensation in the eyes
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Blurred vision
• Eye redness
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Feeling like something is in the eye

Diagnosis

At Sohana Hospital, our experienced ophthalmologists use several methods to diagnose dry eyes effectively:

1. Symptom Assessment: A detailed discussion about your symptoms and medical history helps identify potential causes.

2. Tear Production Test: This measures the quantity and quality of tears produced by the eyes.

3. Eye Examination: The doctor examines the surface of your eyes and eyelids to look for signs of dryness and inflammation.

4. Specialized Tests: In some cases, additional tests such as tear breakup time (TBUT) and ocular surface staining may be performed to assess tear film stability and the health of the eye surface.

Treatment Options:

The degree of dry eyes and the underlying cause determine the appropriate treatment. Sohana Hospital provides a variety of treatments adapted to each patient's needs:

1. Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tear drops help to lubricate and reduce dryness.

2. Prescription Eye Drops: To reduce inflammation and enhance tear production, doctors may prescribe cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra).

3. Punctal Plugs: These small plugs in the tear ducts prevent tears from draining too quickly, keeping the eyes moist.

4. Lifestyle Changes: Changing your environment (using a humidifier, avoiding smoking), taking pauses while using a screen, and practicing proper eyelid care might help relieve dry eye symptoms.

5. Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin supplements help improve eye health.

Preventive Measures

In addition to treatment, adopting preventive measures can help manage and reduce the frequency of dry eyes:

• Blink regularly, especially when focusing on screens or reading.
• Take breaks during prolonged screen use to rest your eyes.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from wind and sunlight.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins.

Conclusion

Dry eyes can significantly impact daily life, but with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, its symptoms can be effectively managed. At Sohana Hospital, our commitment to providing compassionate care and advanced treatments ensures that every patient receives personalized care for their eye health needs. Whether you're experiencing mild discomfort or severe dryness, our team of dedicated ophthalmologists is here to help you achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life. Don't let dry eyes hold you back—schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards healthier, more comfortable eyes.