Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye is a complex, progressive disease that results from chronic damage to the parts of the eye that produce and support tears. The tears are responsible for providing protection, comfort, vision and maintenance for the eye surface. Typically, there is more than one initiating factor contributing to dryness of the eye. Through multiple tests and informative scans, we can assess why you are having dry eye to find the root cause and work towards improving your eye health and comfort.
Defining Dry Eye Disease
Dry Eye Disease is a disease of the tears and ocular surface that results in symptoms of discomfort, visual disturbance, and tear film instability. It has the potential damage to the ocular surface. Dry eye disease is accompanied by increased osmolarity of the tear film (think “saltiness”) and inflammation (think “red, irritation”) of the ocular surface.
What are the Symptoms?
To identify Dry Eye Disease, look for the following symptoms:
- Scratchy or gritty sensation
- Itching and/or burning
- Redness
- Foreign body sensation
- Watery eyes
- Increased irritation from wind & smoke
- Contact lens discomfort
- Fluctuating vision throughout the day
