How do you know if you have Dry Eye Syndrome?

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can cause discomfort and irritation in the eyes, as well as other symptoms such as redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. If you suspect that you might have Dry Eye Syndrome, there are several signs and symptoms that you can look out for.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

So how do you know if you have Dry Eye Syndrome? One of the most common symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome is a persistent feeling of dryness or irritation in the eyes. This may feel like a gritty or sandy sensation, or like there is something in your eye that you cannot remove. You may also experience burning, stinging, or itching in the eyes, particularly in windy or dry environments.

Another sign of Dry Eye Syndrome is redness or inflammation of the eyes. This may be caused by the irritation and inflammation that occurs when the eyes do not receive enough moisture. Your eyes may also appear bloodshot or feel sore and tender to the touch.

Tearing or watering of the eyes is another symptom of Dry Eye Syndrome. This may seem counterintuitive, but when the eyes do not receive enough moisture, they may actually produce more tears in an attempt to compensate. However, these tears may not provide the lubrication that the eyes need, leading to further irritation and discomfort.

If you wear contact lenses, you may also notice that they become uncomfortable or difficult to wear if you have Dry Eye Syndrome. This is because the lenses can further irritate the eyes and exacerbate dryness and discomfort.

Risk Factors

In addition to these symptoms, there are several risk factors that may increase your likelihood of developing Dry Eye Syndrome. These include aging, hormonal changes (such as menopause), certain medical conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis), and certain medications (such as antihistamines and antidepressants).

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or risk factors, it is important to see an eye doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may perform a series of tests to determine the severity of your Dry Eye Syndrome and to rule out any other underlying conditions that may be causing your symptoms.

How do you treat Dry Eye Syndrome?

Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome may include artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to help moisturise the eyes. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes such as avoiding dry or dusty environments, taking frequent breaks when using a computer or other screen, and using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.

In some cases, more advanced treatments may be necessary, such as prescription medications or procedures such as Intense Pulse Light (IPL) or  blocking tear ducts and prevent tears from draining too quickly from the eyes.

If you suspect that you may have Dry Eye Syndrome, it is important to pay attention to any symptoms or risk factors that you may be experiencing. Our Dry Eye Clinic can properly diagnose and work with you to develop a treatment plan, so you can manage your symptoms and reduce the discomfort and irritation associated with Dry Eye Syndrome.

Contact us or call our reception on 02 9981 1771 to book an appointment today.