5 Daily Habits That Can Make Dry Eye Worse
Dry eye is a multifactorial disease of the ocular surface characterized by a loss of homeostasis of the tear film. It can take place due to medical conditions or injuries. Several daily habits can make dry eyes worse, including continually rubbing the eyes, staring at a computer or television screen too long, and wearing contact lenses for too many days in a row.
If your dry eye is severe, consider laser eye treatment.
Individuals who receive laser eye treatment can find relief from dry eye. With laser eye treatment, a range of eye-related health concerns can be treated, including dry eye. Although certain daily habits can make dry eye worse, laser eye treatment can correct underlying issues that contribute to its development.
Types of Dry Eye
Some of the most common reasons to visit an eye doctor include dry eye symptoms. Individuals suffering from dry eyes may be diagnosed with dry eye syndrome, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, dysfunctional tear syndrome, dry eye disease, or ocular surface disease.
The tear film located over the cornea consists of three main components, known as the lipid layer, aqueous layer, and the basal layer. The most superficial layer, the lipid, reduces the evaporation of tears. The aqueous layer, the middle and thickest part of the tear film, is located in the orbits and the accessory lacrimal glands, and contains water, electrolytes, and peptides. The basal layer is composed of glycoproteins, which enhance the spread of the tear film.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
According to the National Library of Medicine, dry eye disease can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Some of the symptoms associated with dry eye consist of:
Tired eyes
Sandy or gritty sensations
Stinging
Eyelid twitching
Difficulty reading
Burning
Pressure in the eyes
Redness
Blurry vision
Localized pain
Inability to cry
Excessive blinking
Vision fluctuation
Tearing of the eyelid
Difficulty opening the eyes
The above symptoms can cause severe irritation or increased intensity. Symptoms can become severe, and negative daily habits can worsen dry eye.
Causes of Dry Eye
A wide range of environmental conditions, systemic diseases, ocular factors, medications, and sociodemographic factors can contribute to dry eye. Some of the factors and potential causes of dry eye include the following:
Autoimmune systemic diseases such as Graves’ ophthalmopathy and Sjogren syndrome
Behavioral habits such as drinking too much alcohol, having an unhealthy diet, and poor sleep
Connective tissue disorders, including lupus, thyroid diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis
Systemic conditions such as nerve damage, hereditary diseases, diabetes, and multiple sclerosis
Decreased sensations in the cornea due to herpes virus infections or long-term contact lens wear
Ocular allergies
Decreased blinking when staring at screens
Systemic medications, including diuretics, antidepressants, antihistamines, and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs
Environmental factors, including pollution, cigarette smoke, strong winds, and chemical fumes
Topical medications
Vitamin A deficiency
Those with dry eyes should seek treatment from a doctor. Whether you continue to experience a gritty sensation or have the inability to cry, these are signs you should see a doctor who can perform an exam and determine eye health.
Find Dry Eye Treatment
At Aloha Eye Clinic and Surgery Center, we prioritize patients and offer laser eye surgery for a variety of conditions, including glaucoma, diabetes, and secondary cataracts. To help determine why a patient experiences dry eye, we provide full-spectrum eye care, including exams and advanced medical care.
Consider our eye care clinic when searching for an optometrist. Our team of ophthalmologists can help determine the status of your vision, recognize retinal disorders, and provide the treatment necessary to treat dry eye. Contact us today to receive a consultation and learn more about eye health.