Understanding the
Complexities of Dry Eye
Disease
Implementing everyday changes and connecting
with your eye doctor may help
Share:
Eye dryness, achiness, itchiness are all possible symptoms of dry eye disease – your eye doctor may simply refer to it as "dry eye." No matter what you call it, dry eye is a pretty common eye condition. It can also be pretty annoying, interrupting everyday activities like reading, driving, watching TV, or sneaking in a little online shopping. For some patients, dry eye disease can be chronic and potentially progressive.
There are many possible causes of dry eye disease. Read below for several causes of dry eye and tips that may help:
Environmental Factors: Living in areas with low humidity and dry air can impact your eyes and potentially lead to dry eye disease symptoms.
HELPFUL TIP: Monitoring indoor humidity and discussing with your doctor may help.
-
HELPFUL TIP: Monitoring indoor humidity and discussing with your doctor may help.
Prolonged Screen Time: Staring at a screen for long periods of time may cause dry eye disease.
HELPFUL TIP: Taking frequent screen breaks and being aware of how often you blink when reading or working at a computer or mobile device for extended durations may help. When you blink, a film of tears spreads over the eye.
-
HELPFUL TIP: Taking frequent screen breaks and being aware of how often you blink when reading or working at a computer or mobile device for extended durations may help. When you blink, a film of tears spreads over the eye.
Medications: Antihistamines and antidepressants are medications known to potentially cause dry eye.
HELPFUL TIP: Speak to your eye doctor if you may be experiencing dry eye symptoms related to a medication; they may be able to recommend options that could help.
-
HELPFUL TIP: Speak to your eye doctor if you may be experiencing dry eye symptoms related to a medication; they may be able to recommend options that could help.
Contact Lenses: Using contact lenses is a common risk factor for developing dry eye.
HELPFUL TIP: If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms while wearing contact lenses, speak to your eye doctor.
-
HELPFUL TIP: If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms while wearing contact lenses, speak to your eye doctor.
Aging: As we get older, our eyes age with us – this can cause eyes to become more susceptible to dry eye disease.
HELPFUL TIP: Periodic eye and vision examinations are an important part of eye care. Speak to your eye doctor to determine the right care for you.
-
HELPFUL TIP: Periodic eye and vision examinations are an important part of eye care. Speak to your eye doctor to determine the right care for you.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can impact eyes and lead to dry eye.
HELPFUL TIP: Schedule a consultation with your eye doctor to find out if you may be experiencing hormone-related dry eye symptoms.
-
HELPFUL TIP: Schedule a consultation with your eye doctor to find out if you may be experiencing hormone-related dry eye symptoms.
Understanding SYMPTOMS & SIGNS
You may only notice the symptoms of dry eye disease (such as dry, even burning eyes), but your eye care professionals might be able spot the signs of dry eye disease (things your eye doctor can measure). The symptoms and signs of dry eye disease may be caused by inflammation in your eye. It's important to speak to your doctor so they can determine what may be causing your dry eye signs and/or symptoms and recommend appropriate therapy.
Getting Help for Dry Eye Disease
Getting Help for Dry Eye Disease
Treating dry eye disease may require a consultation with an eye doctor. Schedule virtual consult or find an eye care professional near you to discuss treatment options for dry eye disease.
The discussion may include:
-
Sharing your symptoms with your doctor
-
Evaluation of the surface of your eye and tear film
-
An external eye examination
-
An evaluation of the eyelids and cornea
If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of dry eye disease, Xiidra may offer relief. When you're ready to talk with the doctor, complete this conversation starter to help guide you, and see a doctor online or in-person.
Liked it? Share it with others:
If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of dry eye disease, Xiidra may offer relief. When you're ready to talk with the doctor, complete this conversation starter to help guide you, and see a doctor online or in-person.
Liked it? Share it with others:
6/21 134248