Let’s face it, we live in Utah which is the second driest state in the US. Our lawns are dry, our lakes are receding, and our cracked hands are proof of it all. You may have also felt your eyes tearing more, increased light sensitivity, redness, and a sandy or gritty feeling. These are all symptoms of dry eye.
Dry eye is multifactorial and can become a chronic condition which leads to more severe symptoms such as fluctuating or blurry vision, burning, and pain. So, let’s get into it. What is dry eye and what are the latest treatments that have positively impacted so many already.
The Tear Film is the ultimate product of all the moving parts. It is so basic but plays a key role for our ocular health. The tear film hydrates the cornea, fights infections, and creates a smooth surface for vision to be properly focused. The
It is made up of three unique layers. The first layer is the lipid layer or an oil layer which prevents evaporation. The next layer is the aqueous layer, and the last layer is the mucus layer which holds the tears to the surface of the eye.
The oil layer is created in the eyelids from the meibomian glands. Every time you blink, oil is secreted and pushed out of the eyelids and then spread across the eye. The aqueous layer or the water layer is created from the lacrimal gland that sits above the eyelid. The aqueous layer has antimicrobial properties to fight infections before they enter the body. The last component of the tear film is the mucous layer which is created from the sclera or the white part of the eye. The mucous binds the tears against the eye.
Dry eye can be caused from not producing enough tears or it can be evaporating too quickly. Evaporative dry eye means the tears are being produced adequately but they are evaporating too fast for the eye to have its benefit. Here are some systemic examples of why one might be experiencing dry eye:
Medications (All kinds)
Auto-Immune Disease (Arthritis, Thyroid Disease, MS and more)
Hormones (Older Age, Pregnancy)
Previous Refractive Surgery (LASIK of all forms)
Meibomian Gland Disease
Contact Lenses
Environment (Living conditions, Humidity, Environmental Factors)
Poor Blinking (Device use which leads to decreased and incomplete blinking)
Whether your dry eye is from age, auto-immune disease or contact lens wear, it can impact all parts of your life. Our office is dedicated implementing the most advanced treatments to combat this chronic condition. Treatments such as meibomian gland therapy, anti-inflammatory mediators, or nutritional supplements for better quality tears. All interventions are tailored to you specifically as no two people are alike. A simple investigation to your medications, and work/life environment can help us tailor a dry eye solution for you.
John R. Perez, OD