Dry, itchy eyes can be frustrating and uncomfortable. You may be constantly rubbing your eyes or feel like there’s something stuck in them even when there’s nothing there. While there are many causes of itchy eyes, one common culprit is dry eye. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at this condition, its symptoms and causes, and how to find relief.
What is dry eye?
Dry eye happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. Not having enough tears can lead to dryness, itchiness, and discomfort. Some other symptoms of dry eye include redness, blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and eye fatigue. While dry eye can affect anyone, it tends to be more common in adults over 50.
Causes of dry eye
Dry eye can happen for many reasons. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, certain medications, and medical conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to dry eye symptoms. Environmental factors like smoke, wind, and dry air can also contribute to dry eye. Additionally, staring at screens too often or wearing contact lenses for too long can dry out your eyes.
How to find relief
Fortunately, there are many treatments available for dry eye. The most common treatment is artificial tears, which are lubricating eye drops that help keep your eyes moist and comfortable. In addition, lifestyle changes like staying hydrated, taking frequent breaks from screens, and avoiding dry and windy environments when possible can help relieve your symptoms.
If you’re dealing with itchy eyes and think dry eye might be the cause, it’s crucial to see an eye doctor for a proper diagnosis. During an eye exam, our experienced eye doctors can figure out what’s causing your symptoms and recommend treatment to help you find relief and improve your overall eye health. Options may include eyelid sprays to treat inflammation, specially formulated wipes for cleaning the eyelids and lashes, or tear duct plugs to prevent tears from draining.
If you’re experiencing dry, itchy eyes, you’re not alone and there are effective treatments available. By working with an eye doctor, you can get the personalized care you need to improve your eye health and quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an eye exam in Waterville or Newport.
