Do you experience frequent eye irritation or have difficulty staying focused during the day? You might suffer from dry eye syndrome, a condition affecting millions of people worldwide.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some common symptoms associated with this condition so that you can better understand what to look for and when to seek medical advice.
Blurred vision
Blurred vision is the most pervasive symptom of dry eye. This impairment in sight results from decreased lubrication, as dry eye syndrome robs the eyes of their natural moisture. To make matters worse, the lack of moisture results in heightened irritation, further exacerbating focus and vision. Because of dry eye, it can be difficult to maintain any semblance of clear sight. For example, the targeted energy from Lumenis IPL stimulates cells to improve tear production in dry eye sufferers, resulting in better eye lubrication.
Itching or redness in the eye
Dry eye syndrome is a common and misunderstood condition that can cause significant disruption to a patient’s life. Symptoms commonly include itching and redness, caused when the body fails to produce enough tears or moisture to lubricate the eyes. If left untreated, unchecked irritation can become severe and disrupt everyday activities such as reading or watching television. Prolonged exposure may even lead to troublesome burning in the affected eye. However, with the diligent use of artificial tears, proper nutrition, and regular check-ups with an eye doctor, sufferers can effectively manage this debilitating condition without difficulty.
Gritty feeling in the eye
A dry, gritty feeling in the eyes can be incredibly uncomfortable and cause patients to experience discomfort when trying to blink or look up or down. This feeling is typically caused by insufficient tears, which are the body’s natural way of keeping the delicate surfaces of the eyes lubricated with moisture. When tear production diminishes, it causes a decrease in lubrication, which can lead to a greater risk of eye infections and other adverse conditions. In addition, these symptoms can worsen gradually if left untreated and may even lead to vision loss.
Sensitivity to light
In case of extreme dryness of the cornea and conjunctiva, dry eye syndrome may decrease the tolerance to light. This is especially true in patients with photophobia due to its capability to reflect light off tears creating an intense eye strain. This discomfort can be further aggravated by any subtle changes in environmental temperature or humidity that may trigger or increase the symptoms. Therefore, treatments like punctal plugging or artificial tears are recommended to lessen light sensitivity. But if symptoms persist, it becomes important to have a comprehensive eye exam for diagnosis and treatment regimen.
Final thoughts
While dry eye syndromes may seem like a minor inconvenience initially, they can lead to significant discomfort if left untreated. By understanding dry eye symptoms and seeking treatment early on, patients can ensure that their vision remains clear and comfortable for years to come. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above or have general concerns about your vision health, don’t hesitate to contact an ophthalmologist or optometrist immediately for an official diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.