{"id":15426,"date":"2021-07-14T14:57:19","date_gmt":"2021-07-14T14:57:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/?page_id=15426"},"modified":"2021-07-26T08:13:58","modified_gmt":"2021-07-26T08:13:58","slug":"consequences-of-untreated-dry-eyes","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/general-practice-optometry\/guide-to-eye-conditions\/dry-eye\/what-is-dry-eye-syndrome\/consequences-of-untreated-dry-eyes\/","title":{"rendered":"Consequences of Untreated Dry Eyes"},"content":{"rendered":"

Up to 15% of all adults suffer with dry eyes.<\/b><\/h2>\n

Increase the quality of your tears and improve the quality of your life.<\/p>\n

What is Dry Eye?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Dry eye syndrome<\/a> occurs when your eyes produce either low-quality tears or insufficient tears to keep your eyes moisturized.<\/p>\n

The oily layer of your tears is produced by the meibomian glands inside your eyelids, which can malfunction or become clogged, causing your tears to dry out.<\/p>\n

Tears are necessary for good eye health and comfort. They hydrate your eyes while also removing debris. Untreated dry eye syndrome can damage your cornea and cause vision loss in severe circumstances.<\/p>\n

Dry eye syndrome<\/a> can result from blocked glands, sensitivity to the environment (wind, air pollution), infrequent blinking, certain medications, some medical conditions, contact lenses and demodex mites, among others.<\/p>\n

The intensity of the dryness varies from person to person. If you have a minor case of dry eye, over-the-counter eye drops may help.<\/p>\n

If the condition persists or seems to be getting worse, see an eye doctor near<\/a> you who will examine your eyes, identify the underlying issue, and begin treatment.<\/strong><\/p>\n

SEE RELATED:<\/strong> Dry Eyes or Eye Allergies?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\t

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Find an eye doctor near you<\/h3>\n\t\t\n\t
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