The tears your eyes produce are necessary for overall eye health
and clear vision. Dry eye means that your eyes do not produce
enough tears or that you produce tears that do not have the
proper chemical composition. Dry eye is more common as we age.
It can also be caused by blinking or eyelid problems,
medications like antihistamines, oral contraceptives and
antidepressants, a dry climate, wind and dust, general health
problems like arthritis or Sjogren's syndrome and chemical or
thermal burns to your eyes. If you have dry eye, your symptoms
may include irritated, scratchy, dry, uncomfortable or red eyes,
a burning sensation, excessive tearing, blurred vision, or a
feeling of something foreign in your eyes. Excessive dry eyes
may damage eye tissue, scar your cornea (the front covering of
your eyes) and impair vision and make contact lens wear
difficult. If you have symptoms of dry eye, see us immediately
for a comprehensive examination. Dry eye cannot be cured, but we
may be able to prescribe a treatment plan