When patients seek dry eye treatment at one of our Frankfort, Louisville, and Kentuckiana area locations, they’ll find one of the few facilities in the region that can offer a range of diagnostic tools for dry eye syndrome.
Dry eye syndrome, also called ocular surface disease, is one of the most common reasons that people visit eye doctors. Because it’s so common, it’s important to know the signs of dry eye.
Common Dry Eye Symptoms
We encourage men and women to visit their eye doctors if they’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed below:
- A relentless and constant feeling that there’s something trapped in your eye
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses for extended periods of time
- Experiencing a burning, stinging, or gritty sensation around the eyes
- Blurry vision that fluctuates throughout the day
- Excessive blinking
- Difficulty reading or looking at computer or device screens for extended periods
A related indication that you’re suffering from dry eye syndrome is if your symptoms seems to get worse in the evening. You may also be unusually sensitive to lights or have seasonal allergies that you didn’t previously experience.
The video below offers more information about symptoms of dry eyes and our Dry Eye Center’s diagnosis and treatment technologies.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Our eyes need an adequate, consistent layer of tears to keep them healthy and comfortable. Tears moisten eyes to wash dust, debris, and microorganisms from the surface, helping to prevent eye infections.
Three components make up healthy tears: oily, watery, and mucous-like components. If something interferes with the production of any of these components, dry eye can result.
What Is the Main Cause of Dry Eyes?
Several factors are associated with the development of dry eyes, including the use of certain medications and aging. Other factors include:
- Extensive digital screen time
- Wearing contacts
- Hormonal changes in women
- Frequent flying
- Arid climates or windy conditions
- Smoking
LASIK surgery is sometimes associated with dry eye syndrome, but the condition is usually temporary in those cases. Check out our related blog post to learn more about the causes of dry eyes.
Is Dry Eye Very Common?
Dry eye syndrome, also called chronic dry eye, affects more than 16 million people in the U.S. ages 18 or older, according to information gathered by the National Health and Wellness Survey. The American Journal of Ophthalmology reported that the numbers are probably higher than that because many people who have dry eye syndrome don’t seek treatment from eye doctors.
Get Help for Dry Eyes
We don’t want you to be one of those people who needlessly suffer the uncomfortable, annoying, and even painful symptoms of dry eye without treatment.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you can contact us using the online form to request a consultation with one of our Frankfort eye doctors or call our main office at (812) 284-0660 to schedule an appointment at the location nearest you.
