Dry Eye Disease
Dry Eye Disease (DED) is quickly becoming one of the most common medical conditions affecting adults today. Recent studies estimate that 14.4% of adults over 40 are impacted by dry eye, as well as 50% of people that wear contact lenses. We take dry eye very seriously at Six One Six Vision Center, knowing the drastic consequences it can have on a person’s quality of life and vision.
RISK FACTORS FOR DRY EYE:
- Increasing age
- Gender – females are more prone to dry eye than males
- Excessive computer work
- Environment – dry climates (like Idaho) can contribute to dry eye
- Systemic diseases – such as diabetes, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren Syndrome, thyroid disease, rosacea, and more
- Medication use – including those for allergies, depression, Parkinson’s, high blood pressure, birth control, and more
SYMPTOMS OF DRY EYE:
Some of the most common symptoms of dry eye include:
- Burning or stinging of the eyes
- Gritty or foreign body sensation
- Blurry or unstable vision
- Light sensitivity
- Tired or fatigued eyes
- Reduced comfort in contact lenses
- Reduced reading or near working ability
DIAGNOSIS OF DRY EYE:
Dry eye is typically diagnosed by a combination of patient symptoms and ocular signs. A comprehensive examination of the eyes will look at both the eyelids and the surface of the eye to evaluate them for signs of dry eye disease. Different dyes or “stains” may be used to give the doctor further insight into the ocular surface.
TREATMENT OF DRY EYE:
If there is a silver lining to the increasing prevalence of dry eye among the general population, it is that the number of treatments for dry eye are rapidly expanding. Some of the most common therapies for dry eye include:
- Artificial tears
- Nutritional supplements
- Topical medications, including anti-inflammatories
- Lid hygiene
At Six One Six Vision Center, we strive to work together with the patient to devise a treatment plan that is going to work for the patient and breed success to managing the patient’s dry eye condition.
If you believe you are suffering from dry eye disease, or feel like you have run out of options to treat your symptoms, please give us a call at (208) 514-1858 to schedule an evaluation or book your appointment online now.