Dry eye symptoms & treatment

Tears can be shed out of joy and for release, but they also keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear, which aids proper vision. When the body doesn’t produce enough tears or the tears are poor quality, it’s called dry eye. Without lubrication from tears, the eyes are vulnerable to infection or irritation from foreign matter like dust, dirt or other small objects.

Symptoms of dry eye

Symptoms may include:

• Irritated, burning or scratchy eyes
• Blurry vision
• The feeling that something is in the eye
• Watery eyes

Serious or advanced cases of dry eye can damage the eye and impair vision.

Treatment for dry eyes

Mild cases can often be treated with over-the-counter eye drops, or artificial tears. Other treatments include:

• Conserving tears: Blocking the tear ducts (or tear drains) helps tears stay in the eyes.
• Increasing tear production: Prescription eye drops and omega-3 fatty acid supplements can encourage the body to produce more tears. If your eyes are dry even with over-the-counter medications, call your doctor to discuss treatment options.

Why Aurora Health Care?

• Our ophthalmologists are on call 24/7, so if you have an eye emergency, we’re there to help.
• We offer hundreds of specialists under one roof. If your doctor notices another health issue during your exam, like symptoms of diabetes, he or she can get you an appointment with another Aurora specialist right away.
• Our clinics, hospitals and surgery centers provide care for a whole spectrum of eye issues.
• Aurora Vision Centers provide optometry and ophthalmology services for your entire family at a location near you.