Treatment Details

Dry eyes

Common symptoms of Dry eyes

Dry eyes occur when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This condition can cause discomfort, irritation, and even affect your vision. Symptoms of dry eyes include

  • A gritty sensation

  • Redness

  • Stinging or burning

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Blurred vision

  • Eye fatigue

Fides Dry eyes treatment

Risk factors

1.

Age

Dry eyes are more common in older adults, particularly those over 50, due to a natural decrease in tear production with age.

2.

Gender

Women are more likely to develop dry eyes, especially during hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, menopause, or the use of oral contraceptives.

3.

Medical Conditions

  • Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus can decrease tear production.
  • Diabetes: Can affect tear production and eye surface health.
  • Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid disease can impact tear production and eyelid function.
  • Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can disrupt the oil glands and contribute to dry eyes.
4.

Medications:

Certain medications can reduce tear production, including:

  • Antihistamines
  • Decongestants
  • Antidepressants
  • Blood pressure medications (beta-blockers)
  • Hormone replacement therapy
5.

Lifestyle Factors

  • Smoking: Increases the risk of dry eyes due to exposure to smoke and irritants.
  • Diet: Low intake of omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
6.

Environmental Factors

  • Climate: Dry, windy, or smoky environments can increase tear evaporation.
  • Computer Use: Prolonged screen time reduces blinking rates, leading to faster tear evaporation.
  • Contact Lenses: Wearing contact lenses can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
7.

Eye Surgery

LASIK and Other Refractive Surgeries: These procedures can temporarily or permanently reduce tear production.

8.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or due to hormone replacement therapy can affect tear production.

9.

Use of Eyedrops

Overuse of certain types of eyedrops, especially those containing preservatives, can worsen dry eye symptoms.

10.

Allergies

Eye allergies can cause inflammation and reduce the quality of tears.

While over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief, it's essential to see an eye doctor if you experience persistent dry eye symptoms. They can determine the underlying cause of your dry eyes and recommend appropriate treatments, such as prescription eye drops, lifestyle changes, or in some cases, medical procedures to help manage the condition and improve eye comfort.