Understanding the Symptoms of Dry Eyes Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome (DES) affects people of all races and sexes, though older people are more likely to experience symptoms. The disease is sometimes chronic, which means that there is no cure — patients can only treat the symptoms. Those symptoms include:

• Sensitivity to light.
• Watery, red, or itchy eyes.
• Blurred vision.
• Headaches caused by eyestrain.
• Discomfort including scratching, burning, and stinging.

Some patients do not notice the symptoms as they develop. Regular eye examinations can identify the signs of dry eye disease before they affect a person’s vision.

In order to treat DES, patients should understand the causes of the condition. Dry eyes syndrome is sometimes associated with poor quality of tears. Tears protect the eye by surrounding it with oil, mucus, and water; the mucus allows the eye to lubricate evenly, while the oil prevents the water from drying out. If tears contain too much or too little of any of these substances, the eye won’t be able to self-lubricate properly.

The condition can also be the result of poor tear production, which is sometimes a side effect of some medications, medical conditions, and therapies. Inadequate tear production is also associated with aging, menopause, smoking, wearing contact lenses, and various environmental factors.

Why Patients Should Seek Treatment for Dry Eyes Syndrome

Dry eyes can be annoying, but temporary discomfort isn’t the only concern — over time, the syndrome can damage the patient’s vision. While dry eyes syndrome is relatively common, it’s still a serious condition that needs to be addressed.

People with any of the symptoms listed above should get an evaluation from an ophthalmologist, who will examine the eye, obtain a patient history, and measure the quality and quantity of the patient’s tears. This comprehensive evaluation is important, since dry eyes syndrome can be associated with system health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and certain thyroid diseases.

Only a physician can diagnose dry eyes syndrome. After getting diagnosed, patients should stick with their doctor’s recommendations. However, some non-prescription treatments can offer relief from the pain and discomfort of dry eyes. By researching these treatments, patients may be able to make more knowledgeable healthcare decisions.

Treatment Options for Dry Eyes Syndrome

To treat dry eyes syndrome, doctors may recommend addressing environmental factors, changing medications, and forming new habits that promote healthy tear production. A person with the condition might consider using a humidifier, wearing sunglasses, and taking frequent breaks when using computers and other devices.

Of course, making these changes won’t always address the symptoms, which is why patients may benefit from researching additional treatment options online. Potential treatments and therapies include:

• Health supplements designed for dry eyes syndrome.According to the Mayo Clinic, omega-3 fatty acid supplements can reduce symptoms of dry eyes. Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to improve the oil film in the tears, promoting the quality of tears. Other supplements containing vitamins and minerals may also have a beneficial effect, though some supplements can interact with certain medications.
• Prescription and non-prescription eye drops. Eye drops may simulate natural tears, promote tear production, or contain ingredients that limit inflammation, reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Dietary changes. Vitamin deficiencies may cause dry, irritated eyes. In particular, recent research indicates that vitamin D deficiency may be linked with DES, and physicians may recommend dietary changes (or supplements, if necessary) to affected patients.
• Eyelid cleansers. These products include wipes, ointments, and drops that cleanse the eyelid, eliminating bacteria that may cause DES in some patients.

Many people have success with non-prescription products and therapies, particularly when their symptoms are mild. However, before using any new treatment, patients should consult with their physicians.

Starting Online Research for Dry Eyes Syndrome Treatment

Dry eyes syndrome can cause a range of symptoms varying in severity, which is why clinical diagnosis is extremely important. Report any symptoms to a qualified eye doctor — and even when symptoms aren’t present, patients should get annual eye examinations. This is particularly important for older adults, who may develop DES without noticeable symptoms.

Supplements, eyelid cleansers, and eye drops can be important components of a comprehensive treatment plan. Patients should consider various options to treat the disease’s symptoms, particularly when suffering from pain, irritation, or impaired vision. There's no reason to live with discomfort, and researching available treatments can be an important first step.