When Dry Eyes Linger, It Could Be Time to See an Eye Doctor

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When Dry Eyes Linger, It Could Be Time to See an Eye Doctor

By Angela G. Nannetti

Every time we blink our eyelids, tears spread across the surface of our eyes in order to keep them moist, but when we aren’t producing enough quality tears to lubricate them, our eyes become dry. Many of us know the pain and discomfort of dry, itchy eyes, and the redness and irritation that follow when we instinctively rub them. Sometimes the symptoms of dry eyes are seasonal; caused by exposure to the elements, and go away on their own-- but when those symptoms persist, it could be time to see an ophthalmologist.

According to Swathi Reddy, MD, a board certified ophthalmologist at St. Jude Eye Care, “dry eyes can be the result of fluctuating estrogen levels”, a concern for women who are pregnant, in menopause, and those taking birth control pills. “Dry eyes can also be a side-effect of certain medications (beta-blockers, diuretics, and antihistamines), wearing contacts, undergoing chemotherapy, autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, or even diabetes.” Other times, dry eyes can be attributed to lifestyle and occupational factors like extensive screen time (TVs, computers, phones), use of blow-dryers, fans, cleaning products, and poor ventilation.

An ophthalmologist can help you pinpoint what is causing your chronic dry eyes and recommend treatment once they fully understand your medical history and conduct an eye exam to measure the quality of your tear film. “For most patients, the use of artificial tears three or four times a day is all it takes to get relief,” Dr. Reddy advised. However the use of a warm compress for ten minutes a few times a day, humidifiers in the home, drinking plenty of water, and taking a daily Omega-3 supplement may also maximize relief.

Artificial tears are available at the pharmacy without a prescription, but are not to be confused with other types of eye drops, which are not the same. “I always warn my patients against using eye drops that promise to ‘get the red out’, which become habitual and can cause rebound hyperemia over time”, Dr. Reddy explained. Patients who still have symptoms after making these changes should consider seeing an ophthalmologist to learn about other options available to them, including the insertion of punctual plugs, which keep tears from draining away from the eye, and keep them on the ocular surface long enough to keep the eyes properly lubricated.