Dry Eyes
Dry eyes are very common in Colorado due to the dry air. The are many factors that cause dry eyes including climate, age, use of contact lenses and other medical conditions. Dry eyes are a more common condition, in cold weather, due to home heating systems removing moisture from the air. As people age, they produce less lubricating basal tear secretions. People who wear contact lenses and those taking antihistamines are often more susceptible to dry eyes. Dry eyes may also be associated with collagen vascular disease.
Symptoms of dry eyes include:
- Dry, scratchy sensation, or sandy feeling on the front surface of eye
- Burning
- Eyelids stick to the eyes upon awakening in the morning
- Mucuous in the eye
- Blurred vision
Treatment:
- Artificial tears - Dr. Campbell has many samples for you to try. Some patients prefer thicker drops that last longer, while others prefer the more watery drops.
- Punctal plugs - A very thin tube drains excess tears from the upper and lower eyelids to the nose (this is why our noses run when crying). The plug closes the lower tube and it allows both the natural tears and the eye drops to stay on the eye longer.
- Restasis eye drops - This is a prescription drug that stimulates increased tear production. This eye drop is used twice a day.
- Nutritional Supplements - These include Omega 3 fatty acids and flaxseed oil. One brand of supplement for dry eyes is TheraTears Nutrition. This over-the counter-medicine may need to be ordered through a pharmacist.