Is My Dry Eye Concerning?

Dry eyes can happen when your eyes do not produce enough tears for lubrication, or when your tears evaporate too quickly. This can happen for various reasons and cause discomfort in the eyes. Your eyes may sting or burn. However, this condition is not known to cause permanent vision impairment. 

Although the consequences of a dry eye are not severe, it can still affect the quality of your life. It can become difficult to work with your computer, drive, or do other daily activities. Therefore, it is important to visit your Hell’s Kitchen dry eye doctor for a check-up and start your treatment early. 

How will I know if my dry eye condition is concerning?

Healthy eyes produce tears all the time, and not just when you express emotions. Tears are an essential factor in keeping your eyes lubricated so that you do not feel discomfort. In people with dry eye syndrome, their eyes are unable to produce sufficient tears and thus, cause redness, itchiness, feeling of something in the eye, and inflammation. 

Mild and temporary cases of dry eye can be cured with over-the-counter artificial tears and eye drops. However, if these remedies fail to work, they can lead to severe inflammation of the eye, bacterial infection, cornea scarring, ulcers, and vision loss. 

Conjunctivitis is a common symptom of a dry eye and usually does not require any more help than over-the-counter eye drops. If the condition still persists, it may be time to see a doctor. 

If your dry eye does not go away on its own within a few days or a couple of weeks, you should seek medical help. Dry eyes lack the protective layer which defends them from infection. Ignoring the condition makes your eyes prone to an eye infection. Additionally, it can hamper your quality of life. For example, you may have trouble reading, looking at your phone or computer screen, etc. 

Some Possible Treatments for Dry Eyes:

  • Artificial tears and eye drops – Mild dry eye cases can be treated easily with the help of artificial tears or eye drops. Ask your doctor for recommendations and the amount of dosage to take. 
  • Change your diet – Some foods can particularly cause dryness in your eyes. Ask your doctor which foods to take and which ones to avoid. 
  • Massaging your eyes – To reduce inflammation, soak a clean cloth in warm water and clean your eyelids. Further, massage them in a circular motion to remove mucus from the eyelid glands. Make sure your fingers are clean when you do this. 
  • Medications – Some medications can increase the production of tears in your eyes and lower the risk of corneal damage. One well-known medicine is cyclosporine; however, it is better to consult your eye doctor before taking them.