Dry Eye Syndrome, also known as Ocular Surface Disease, is a common and often frustrating condition affecting millions of people. Characterized by a reduction in the quality and quantity of tears due to inflammation, dry eye can impact your vision, comfort, and overall eye health. At Minnesota Eye Consultants, we are proud to be an Accredited Dry Eye Center, offering cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment solutions to provide relief for our patients.
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Tears play a critical role in maintaining the health of your eyes and providing clear vision. They lubricate the eye’s surface, wash away debris, and help protect against infection. When your eyes fail to produce enough tears or the tears lack the right balance of nutrients, it can lead to discomfort and irritation. Dry Eye Syndrome can develop gradually, often becoming more noticeable over time, particularly as symptoms worsen throughout the day.
Recognizing the Symptoms
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may be dealing with Dry Eye Syndrome:
- Persistent pain or irritation in the eyes
- A sandy or gritty sensation, as if something is in your eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Decreased tolerance to contact lenses
- Fluctuating symptoms that worsen as the day progresses
These symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving, and using digital devices.
Common Causes of Dry Eye
Dry Eye Syndrome can result from a combination of factors:
- Age and Hormonal Changes: Tear production often decreases with age, and hormonal changes, especially in post-menopausal women, can increase the risk of dry eye.
- Systemic Conditions: Diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and Riley-Day Syndrome can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Conditions affecting the eyelids, cornea, or the eye’s ability to blink fully also contribute to dryness.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, air conditioning, or a dry climate can accelerate tear evaporation and intensify symptoms.
By identifying the underlying cause of your dry eye, our team can create a personalized treatment plan to restore comfort and eye health.
Expert Insight
Dr. Ahmad Fahmy, one of our Ocular Surface Disease specialists, emphasizes the importance of addressing dry eye symptoms, especially during seasonal changes. He notes that environmental factors can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
Advanced Care for Dry Eye at Minnesota Eye Consultants
As an Accredited Dry Eye Center, we are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatments to address dry eye comprehensively. From lifestyle modifications to medical therapies, we offer a variety of options to alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life.
If you’re struggling with dry, irritated eyes, let us help. Schedule a consultation with our expert team to discuss your symptoms, uncover the cause, and explore effective solutions.
