For Dry Eyes

Causes, Symptoms and Treatment For Dry Eyes

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Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes: Stop Eye Irritation and See Better

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Many people do not realize that there are contact lenses for dry eyes that can help stop an irritating problem. Sensitive eyes may feel irritated while wearing contacts, especially for a longer period of time. One solution is to wear contact lenses for shorter periods of time so eye get a break. If this option does not work, there are contact lenses for dry eyes that could help.

Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

One solution is to switch to Rigid Gas Permeable contact lenses (or RGP contacts). This type of lens contains less water, which means moisture won’t escape through evaporation. RGP contact lenses are not ideal for everyone. The reason many people shy away from this option is the discomfort caused by the lenses themselves. RGP contacts can feel very rigid, especially if there is not enough moisture between the lens and surface of your eye.

Soft Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes

There are a few soft contact lenses for dry eyes available today. These are made with less water, but feel generally more comfortable than RGP contact lenses to most wearers. When visiting the eye doctor, talk to them about dry eye issues and find out which brand they recommend. Luckily, advancements in contact lens technology have made it possible for people with dry eyes to wear comfortable lenses.

When searching for soft contact lenses for dry eyes, there are a few brands available that work. Johnson and Johnson have produced the Acuvue Oasys line while others prefer Proclear Compatibles. Both contain less water and can be very effective for dry eye problems when worn correctly.

Improved Contact Lens Habits

While there are many contact lenses for dry eyes, sometimes the problem lies with the habits of the wearer. No matter which type of lens you use, it is vital that the recommended guidelines be adhered to. Avoid wearing lenses for more than the specified number of hours per day. Even then, sometimes reducing the wear time further can help. Also make sure lenses are kept moist and clean, even during storage. There are cleaning solutions available that can help remove debris from the lens.

Even contact lenses for dry eyes can be uncomfortable when worn inside out. It is easy to accidentally flip the lens, so make sure it is in your eye correctly. Most lenses make a rounded dish shape when viewed on your finger tip. If the ends look pointed, then you may have the lens inside out. This generally becomes even more apparent when you put the lens in your eye and feel discomfort.

Dry Eye Treatment: How to Alleviate Irritated Eyes

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There is no universal dry eye treatment. What will work for your eyes depends on what is causing the problem. Until you know this vital bit of information, it will be a matter of trial and error. Anyone searching for a dry eye treatment should begin by looking for a potential cause or causes. Some sufferers can cure the problem simply by changing habits or environmental factors while others may require the assistance of an eye doctor.

The Easy Option: Eye Drops

The easiest, cheapest and most readily accessible dry eye treatment is over the counter eye drops. Almost any pharmacy or grocery store carries them. Eye drops come in small travel sized bottles as well so they can go with you everywhere. The patient simply drips a few drops into their eyes for quick relief. Eye drops are not a cure all and they will likely be needed over and over again.

There are many different eye drop brands available, however Rastasis eye drops are available to actually promote tear production. These are currently only eye drops of their kind.  Patients that want to try Rastasis as a dry eye treatment will have to talk to their doctor and obtain a prescription.

Punctal Plugs for Serious Dry Eyes

Some patients need a more intensive dry eye treatment. After eye drops prove ineffective, a physician may recommend Punctal plugs. These are little devices that are inserted directly into tear ducts to slow the release of tears. This in turn helps keep eyes moisturized, which can sometimes stop dry eye syndrome.  This dry eye treatment is generally considered after less intrusive options are tried.

There are two types of Punctal plugs. The first is intended to give the wearer an opportunity to try them out and test effectiveness. These are a temporary dry eye treatment and will eventually dissolve. The second type is semi-permanent, usually made of silicone. These are intended for long term use after the patient has decided that Punctal plugs work for them.

Environmental Changes to Stop Dry Eyes

If environmental factors are causing your irritated eye problem, then changes may need to be made in your daily routine. This dry eye treatment is non-medical, but can have a strong impact on the situation. Dry air from a heating system can cause dry eyes. Try moving away from any vents blowing directly on you at home or work.  If possible, try adding moisture to the air. A dehumidifier may make a difference. If you have a fan blowing directly on your face, try moving it. The constant flow of air will dry eyes as well.

Dry Eye Syndrome

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Dry eye syndrome can really ruin your day. It is difficult to stay alert and prepared when eyes are constantly itching, blurring, and feeling uncomfortable. The first step to stopping this common health issue is to learn what causes it. When you know where the root of the problem lies, you can begin to work towards eliminating it. Once you know what is giving you dry eye syndrome, you can begin to search for a treatment that will work.

Eye Drops

One of the simplest ways to cure dry eye syndrome is with a bottle of artificial tears, or eye drops. Your physician may recommend this treatment, especially if the case is not too severe. Eye drops will add moisture and lubrication to eyes and help lessen or completely stop itching.  The down side is that you will most likely have to keep eye drops on hand every time you encounter the cause of the problem. If the cause can be removed, then you may only need eye drops for a short time.

Improved Tear Production

Standard, over the counter eye drops can help alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome. However, Restasis eye drops can begin to help cure the problem all together. This type of eye drop actually encourages tear production. There are currently no other eye drops that can do this. There is another, somewhat similar solution called Lacrisert. This is a small object inserted inside the lower eye lid. Lacrisert contains hydroxypropyl cellulose, which lubricates the eye.

Slowed Tear Release

Some people with dry eye syndrome have a hard time producing enough tears to last through the day. Punctal plugs can be put into place that actually block tears from leaving tear ducts (or puncta). There are permanent, silicone punctal plugs as well as temporary ones that can be used to determine if the patient prefers this treatment method. Collagen is used to make the temporary punctal plugs so that they can dissolve.

Physically Block Irritants

Some dry eye syndrome sufferers prefer to physically block irritants in cases where the environment is the cause. Some people wear sunglasses that can block dust particles, pollen, and other flying debris from coming in contact with the eye. These can also provide a shield against the wind itself, which can further dry eyes.

A Closer Look at the Causes of Dry Eyes

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Dry eyes can be a very uncomfortable and annoying condition to deal with. Every day, our eyes play a major role in our ability to function. Discomfort and irritation can severely hinder their ability to guide us. The best way to begin treating dry eyes is to know what is causing them. The following is an overview of common causes that can help you find the root of your dry eye problem!

How Often Do You Blink your Eyes?

Blinking is a normal part of our daily routine, and often times we take it for granted. This natural activity becomes even more important with more and more people spending hours staring at computer monitors. Whether it is at work or at home, the glare of a television or computer monitor can dry out eyes.  The best way to cure dry eyes caused by staring at a bright screen is by making a conscious effort to blink and give your eyes a rest often.

Contact Lens Irritation

Contact lenses can sometimes cause dry eyes. Wearing contacts for long periods of time is not recommended, and can instigate the problem. Anyone who has ever worn contacts knows that discomfort often leads to eye rubbing which leads to more discomfort. Try removing contacts and avoid wearing for long periods of time. Also practice good maintenance and keep lenses clean. If you follow the manufacturers recommended wear times and are still experiencing dry eye discomfort, try reducing the time further. Your eyes may be sensitive and can only handle a shorter period of contact wear before they become dry and uncomfortable.

Climate Control and Your Dry Eyes

Indoor climate control, such as a heating system, can instigate irritated, dry eyes. When the air is very dry, eyes can suffer. Although homes and businesses must be heated and cooled during certain times of the year, you can try to alleviate the problem. Avoid sitting near a vent that blows hot air directly on eyes. Keep eye drops handy as well to help relieve discomfort and moisturize eyes.

Menopause and Aging Eyes

There are many things that happen as our bodies’ age. Dry eyes are one of the more common symptoms of growing older. This is completely natural as our internal systems slow down. Menopause is also known to bring with it the discomfort of dry eyes. Try using eye drops or talk to a doctor if the problem becomes severe.

The Side Effects of Unrelated Medication

Certain medications can also cause dry eyes. This could also cause dry eyes in older patients who begin taking more medications, although younger patients are still susceptible. Individuals who regularly take medications for blood pressure, birth control, and Parkinson’s disease could suffer from dry eyes as a result. Antihistamines have also been known to cause this type of eye irritation.