Dry eye is a common eye problem. It happens when your eyes do not make enough tears or when your tears dry up too quickly.
Dry eye can make your eyes feel dry, itchy, burning, or tired. It can also cause blurry or changing vision.
What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eye?
Dry eye can cause:
- Dry, scratchy, or gritty eyes
- Burning or stinging
- Red or irritated eyes
- Watery eyes
- A feeling that something is in your eye
- Tired eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry or changing vision
It may seem strange to have watery eyes when you have dry eye. But irritated eyes can make extra tears. These tears may not stay on your eyes long enough to keep them moist.
What Causes Dry Eye?
Dry eye can have many causes.
Getting older can cause your eyes to make fewer tears. Some medicines and health problems can also lead to dry eye.
Your surroundings can make dry eye worse. Wind, smoke, dry air, heating, and air conditioning can cause your tears to dry up faster.
Screen use can also play a part. When you look at a computer, tablet, or phone, you may blink less. This can cause your eyes to dry out.
Can Dry Eye Cause Blurry Vision?
Yes. Dry eye can cause blurry or changing vision.
Tears help keep the surface of your eyes smooth so you can see clearly. When your eyes become too dry, your vision may become blurry.
You may notice this more when reading, using a computer, or looking at your phone for a long time.
If your vision stays blurry or keeps changing, Dr. Van can check your eyes to help find out what is causing the problem.
How Is Dry Eye Treated?
Dry eye treatment depends on what is causing it.
Treatment may include artificial tears, warm compresses, eyelid care, or changes to your daily habits. Dr. Van may also recommend other treatment based on your symptoms and eye health.
You can also try taking breaks from screens, blinking more often, and keeping fans or air conditioners from blowing directly into your eyes.
If dry, irritated eyes keep bothering you, Dr. Van can examine your eyes, look for the cause, and recommend care that fits your needs.
Dry Eye Care in Loveland
Kenneth Van Amerongen, Optometrist provides eye care for patients with dry eye symptoms in Loveland, Colorado.
Dr. Van can check your eyes, look for possible causes, and recommend care based on your needs.
If your eyes often feel dry, irritated, tired, or blurry, schedule an eye exam with Dr. Van to have them checked.
