Dry eye disease affects millions of people. The condition can occur when tears evaporate too quickly or due to insufficient tear production, affecting one or both eyes. There are two types of dry eye disease, occurring individually or simultaneously. 

Aqueous deficiency occurs when there is insufficient production of the aqueous by the lacrimal glands. Evaporative dry eye stems from a deficient tear film lipid layer. Meibomian gland dysfunction is present in most dry eye cases.

Causes
 

There could be several causes of either type of dry eye. These include age, gender, contact lenses, diet, wind, smoke, dry conditions, screen time, and medication. Health issues that can cause the condition include diabetes, thyroid, and autoimmune disorders like lupus or Sjögren syndrome.

Ways Dry Eye Can Affect Your Vision

This disease can have various effects on your vision, both in the short and long term. Here are some of the ways it can affect your eye:

Sensitivity to Light

People with dry eye disease may experience light sensitivity, also known as photophobia. This is due to insufficient lubrication of the cornea with tears. Exposure to light can be extremely painful and uncomfortable for those with dry eye disease.

Mild Vision Loss and Blurry Vision

Dry eye disease can cause mild and blur vision loss, particularly when reading or looking at screens for extended periods. This can be frustrating and make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

Stinging or Burning Sensation

A stinging or burning sensation in the eyes is a common symptom of dry eye syndrome. It can be particularly uncomfortable when wearing contact lenses or when exposed to certain environmental factors, such as wind or smoke.

Higher Risk of Infection

Tears contain unique proteins and enzymes that protect the eyes from infection. You are more likely to get an eye infection when you do not produce enough tears. If left untreated, this can lead to further complications and potentially even vision loss.

Corneal Damage

Severe dry eye can lead to inflammation and damage to the cornea. This can result in corneal abrasions, ulcers, and scarring. The damage can cause pain, discomfort, and potentially even vision loss if not treated promptly.

Blindness
 

While rare, untreated, or severe dry eye can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness. This is because of the damage sustained by the cornea.

Decreased Quality of Life

Dry eye symptoms, including sensitivity to light, burning or stinging sensations, and vision problems, can significantly impact your quality of life. They can make everyday tasks difficult and uncomfortable, such as reading or working on a computer. This can decrease productivity, social interaction, and overall quality of life.

Treatment for Dry Eye

There are numerous treatments available to control dry eye symptoms. But not all treatments are effective for everyone. Milder cases of dry eye disease may benefit from OTC treatments. More severe cases may require prescription medication. Surgery may be necessary in some cases to treat specific causes. You may need to attempt several treatments before finding one that works.

Dry eye syndrome can adversely affect your vision and overall well-being. It is essential to be aware of dry eye symptoms and seek treatment promptly to prevent further complications. This will help improve your quality of life.

For more on dry eye syndrome, visit Perfect Vision Eyecare and Eyewear at our Houston, Texas office. Call (281) 843-5500 to schedule an appointment today.