According to the American Academy of Optometry, in normal conditions, our eyes regularly make tears to stay moist. If our eyes become irritated, or if we cry, our eyes make more tears than usual. In other situations, our eyes don't make enough tears or something can affect the layers of the tear film. In those cases, we end up with dry eye.
Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease (DED) is one of the most common eye diseases and is often chronic. It affects patients of all ages and is often worsens with aging. DED can also result from: ethnicity, general health problems (allergies, high cholesterol, endocrine disorders, pregnancy, menopause, rosacea, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s Syndrome), medications (oral contraceptives, retinoic acid, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants, antihistamines, androgen medications), environmental factors, contact lens overwear, abnormal blinking, make-up, and others that we may discuss with you.
DED can make it more difficult to perform some activities, such as using a computer or reading for an extended period, and it can decrease tolerance for dry environments. In the early stages, you may not have any symptoms. However, if left untreated, excessive inflammation can damage the ocular surface tissue and decrease vision.
Description
Symptoms
-
Dryness
-
Gritty sensation
-
Redness
-
Irritation
-
Fatigue
-
Burning
-
Stinging
-
Tearing
-
Light sensitivity
-
Itching
-
Discomfort with contact lenses
-
Blurry or fluctuating vision
Types of Test
Diagnosis and Treatment
To determine how to provide the most appropriate treatment for your DED, the doctors at the Illinois Eye Institute may perform additional testing utilizing the most updated technology. Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific type of DED. We may also request that you return for additional testing and follow-up examinations.