Services » Optometric/Ophthalmology » Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is when the tear gland produces fewer tears. The eye depends on the flow of tears to provide constant moisture and lubrication to maintain vision and comfort. Tears are a combination of water, for moisture, oils for lubrication, mucus for even spreading, antibodies and special protein for resistance to infection.

In addition to an imbalance in the tear-flow system of the eye, there are situations that dry out the tear film. Some are: dry air from air conditioning, heat, or other environmental conditions.

Other conditions include: The natural aging process, especially menopause. Side effects of certain medications such as birth control pills and antihistamines, sleeping pills, certain blood pressure medication and medication for Parkinson’s disease.

Diseases that affect the ability to make tears, such as Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, collagen vascular diseases, and lupus erythematosus.

When eyes are not adequately lubricated you may experience pain, light sensitivity, itching, redness, blurring of vision, a gritty sensation or a feeling of a foreign object in your eye.

The treatment of dry eye syndrome is a long-lasting condition and it comes and goes at different times. A few of the treatments for this condition include:

• Artificial tear drops
• Ointments
• Temporary punctal occlusion
• Permanent punctal occlusion
• Restasis
• Medication
• Surgery

If you experience some of the above conditions and they are affecting your lifestyle it is time for you to see one of the Doctors at Brenart Eye Clinic.