{"id":20667,"date":"2022-03-20T18:26:17","date_gmt":"2022-03-20T18:26:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/?page_id=20667"},"modified":"2022-03-20T18:26:17","modified_gmt":"2022-03-20T18:26:17","slug":"5-signs-of-dry-eyes-and-the-best-treatments","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/general-practice-optometry\/guide-to-eye-conditions\/dry-eye\/5-signs-of-dry-eyes-and-the-best-treatments\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Signs of Dry Eyes and the Best Treatments"},"content":{"rendered":"

Dry eyes can be uncomfortable and impact your daily performance and your ability to wear contact lenses.<\/b><\/h2>\n

Dry eye syndrome<\/a> is a chronic condition that affects almost 50% of the adult population and millions of people around the world. It occurs when your eyes don\u2019t produce enough tears, or your tear film quality is compromised.<\/p>\n

Dry eye syndrome can result from an underlying eye condition, such as blepharitis<\/a> or meibomian gland dysfunction<\/a>, or can develop from certain environmental factors such as excessive screen time, poor air quality or living in a dry or windy climate.<\/p>\n

Women can be prone to dry eyes, as symptoms are also common during periods of hormonal fluctuations, often worsening during menopause<\/a>, menstruation and pregnancy<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, there are many different types of dry eye treatments that can give you the relief you seek.<\/p>\n

Here are the 5 most common signs of dry eye so you can inform your eye doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:<\/i><\/p>\n

1. Watery eyes<\/b><\/h2>\n

Yes, watery eyes can actually be a sign that your eyes are dry. Dry, irritated eyes stimulate an increase in tear production, which can overwhelm the natural tear drainage system in the eyes and impact the tear production-drainage cycle. This results in excess tears and watery eyes.<\/p>\n

2. Stinging in your eyes<\/b><\/h2>\n

If your eyes feel like they are on fire, and the burning and stinging sensation makes contact lens wear impossible, this is a telltale sign that your eyes are dry and in desperate need of lubrication.<\/p>\n

3. Blurry vision<\/b><\/h2>\n

Blurry vision that comes and goes and causes you to blink hard or frequently to improve your visual clarity, is another common sign of dry eye.<\/p>\n

Note: Intermittent blurry vision can also be a sign of a serious eye condition, so consult with your eye doctor if you notice any form of blurry vision.<\/i><\/p>\n

4. Eye discharge<\/b><\/h2>\n

Dry, crusty or stringy mucus in the corners of your eyes, especially upon wakening can be a sign of dry eye.<\/p>\n

The tears are composed of water, oil and mucus. When tear production is stimulated by dry, irritated eyes, the tears often contain excess mucus which causes the unsightly discharge around your eyes.<\/p>\n

Note: Yellow or green discharge from the eye can also be a symptom of pink eye (conjunctivitis), so it is important to consult with your eye doctor to rule out an eye infection.<\/i><\/p>\n

5. Red eyes<\/b><\/h2>\n

Redness of the eyes is typically caused by eye irritation, and can be a symptom of many different eye conditions. But, if you are experiencing red eyes, along with any other dry eye symptoms, you are most likely suffering from dry eye.<\/p>\n

However, to be sure, it is always best to consult with your eye doctor for a proper diagnosis.<\/p>\n

SEE RELATED: <\/b>The Link Between Dry Eyes and Accutane\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n

If you are experiencing any of these 5 common signs of dry eye, schedule an eye exam with an eye doctor near you.<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n\n\t

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