Four Dry Eye Symptoms
Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common disorder of the tear film. The syndrome affects a significant percentage of the population, especially those older than 40 years of age. It is more common in women than in men. DES results from one of the following:
- Decreased tear production
- Excessive tear evaporation
- An abnormality in the production of mucus or lipids normally found in the tear layer
Other causes of dry eye syndrome can include antihistamines, antidepressants, LASIK surgery and excessive wearing of contact lenses.
Symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:
- feelings of dryness, grittiness or soreness, which might get worse as the day progresses
- redness of the eyes
- watering eyes, particularly when exposed to wind
- eyelids that stick together when you wake up
Your treatment plan may include tear duct plugs, where your eye doctor puts tiny plugs in the openings of your tear ducts. Prescription drops are another option. If you think you suffer from dry eye syndrome, please contact Doctors for Visual Freedom in Chicago for a consultation.
