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Dry Eye is the term used to describe eyes that do not produce enough tears or tears with the proper chemical composition. Dry Eye is most often a result of eyes’ natural aging process. Most peoples’ eyes tend to become drier as they age, but the degree of dryness varies and some people have more problems than others. In addition to age, dry eye can result from:
- Problems with normal blinking as seen with prolonged reading and computer use
- Certain medication like antihistamines, oral contraceptives and antidepressants
- Environmental factors like a dry climate and exposure to wind
- General health problems like arthritis or Sjogren’s Syndrome
- Chemical or thermal burns to the eye
Dry Eye symptoms are often different in different people, but the following are the most commonly experienced:
- Irritated, scratchy, dry or uncomfortable eyes
- Redness of the eyes
- Burning sensation of the eyes
- Feeling of a foreign body in the eyes
- Blurred vision
- Excessive watering
If left untreated, Dry Eye can be more than just irritating or uncomfortable, it can lead to scarring of the Cornea and or eye infection. Unfortunately, Dry Eye cannot be cured, but treatment can be prescribed so your eyes remain healthy and your vision is not affected. Early detection is essential to the successful management of this disease.
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Blepharitis is a chronic or long term inflammation of the eyelids and eyelashes. It affects people of all ages. The most common causes of Blepharitis are:
- Poor eyelid hygiene
- Excess oil produced by the glands in the eyelids
- Bacterial infection (often Staphylococcal)
- An Allergic reaction
There are two ways in which Blepharitis may appear. The most common and least severe, Seborrheic Blepharitis, associated with dandruff of the scalp or skin conditions like acne. It can appear as flakes or scales around the base of the eyelashes and as a mild redness of the eyelid. Sometimes it may result in a roughness of the (normally smooth) tissue that lines the inside of the eyelids; or Chalazia, which are nodules on the eyelids (often painless and firm in texture). And, acute infection of the eyelids can result in styes.
Ulcerative Blepharitis is less common, but more severe condition. It is characterized by matted, hard crusts around the eyelashes, which, when removed, leave small sores that may bleed or ooze. The Cornea, the transparent covering of the front of the eyeball, may become inflamed.
In most cases, a good Eyelid Hygiene program, (upon awakening to clear debris buildup, caused during sleep) can prevent most symptoms. Early detection is essential to the successful treatment of this condition.