Dry eye syndrome might seem like just an irritating condition, but it’s an issue that can result in a larger impact on your vision if left untreated. While dry eye itself cannot directly cause blindness, its complications such as corneal damage, infections, and chronic inflammation, can lead to vision problems that may progress to more serious outcomes without proper care.
If you’re experiencing dry eye conditions, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with the Eye Care Center of Colorado Springs to speak with one of our friendly eye doctors, who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend the right treatment for you.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears being produced evaporate too quickly. Tears keep the eyes lubricated, making them important for preventing infections and maintaining clear vision. When the balance is off, it can lead to symptoms like:
- Persistent dryness
- Stinging or burning
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Redness and irritation
- The sensation that your eyes are glued shut
- Eye fatigue or heaviness
- Excessive tears
Millions of Americans experience dry eyes, and the condition becomes more common as people age. However, outdated workplace practices like prolonged screen time and environmental factors can also exacerbate the problem for younger individuals.
How Does Dry Eye Affect Your Vision?
It’s normal to wonder, “What does dryness have to do with blindness?” While dry eye itself isn’t a direct cause of blindness, the complications arising from untreated symptoms can lead to further vision problems, including:
Corneal Damage
The cornea (transparent layer covering the front of the eye) relied on a constant flow of tears to keep the eyes lubricated. Without enough lubrication, the surface can become irritated, leading to small abrasions or ulcers. Over time, the damage being caused can lead to scarring, which could result in permanently blurred vision.
Increased Risk of Eye Infections
Tears play a role in flushing away bacteria, dust, and other irritants from the eye’s surface. When tear production is reduced, the risk of infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye) or keratitis (cornea inflammation) can be higher.
Persistent Blurred Vision
Dry eyes can cause constant blurred or fluctuating vision. When the tear film isn’t stable enough to properly refract light into the eye, it can result in blurriness. While you won’t lose your sight entirely, it can reduce your quality of life, making everyday tasks more challenging.
Contact Lens Intolerance
Untreated dry eyes may make it difficult to wear contact lenses comfortably. Poorly lubricated eyes can result in discomfort, irritation, and dryness, limiting corrective options and leading to additional vision strain, redness, and blurred vision.
Who is At Risk of Dry Eye?
Certain groups of people are more likely to develop dry eye and might benefit from paying extra attention to potential symptoms:
- Older adults because natural tear production tends to decrease with age
- Individuals with autoimmune diseases such as lupus
- Spending long hours staring at a screen
- People living in dry or windy climates
- People who wear contact lenses
If you fall within one of these categories, regular eye check-ups can be an efficient way of keeping up with your eye health. A comprehensive evaluation can help to catch any sights of dry eye early and mitigate long-term issues.
Dry Eye Treatment Options
As we saw, dry eye syndrome can develop from various conditions, making it important to pinpoint what might be causing your symptoms. Here are a few treatment options:
- Humidifiers: If you live in a windy or dry environment, consider an indoor humidifier to increase moisture.
- 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for a total of 20 seconds.
- Stay hydrated: Not getting enough water can lead to dehydration, making it difficult for your body to produce tears.
- Prescription solutions: Eye drops can help to reduce inflammation and stimulate tear production for longer-term relief.
- Artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops can help to provide immediate relief to discomfort.
- Proper eyelid hygiene: Gently cleaning your eyelids and lashes can help remove debris and oil buildup, helping promote healthier tear production and reducing irritation.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Intense light pulses are used to heat clogged meibomian glands to improve tear film quality, reduce dryness, and decrease chronic dry eye inflammation caused by ocular rosacea.
- Bipolar Radiofrequency (RF): Bipolar radiofrequency energy is used to target the meibomian glands, allowing for improved tear production and secretion.
Booking an appointment with your eye care doctor provides an opportunity for them to thoroughly evaluate your dry eye condition and assess the underlying causes. Based on their findings, they can recommend a personalized treatment plan, which can help to alleviate discomfort and improve your eye health.
Prioritize Your Eye Health
Although dry eye doesn’t directly cause blindness, untreated symptoms can lead to significant complications and more long-term vision issues. The good news? Most cases can be managed effectively with the right care and lifestyle adjustments. Don’t take your eye health for granted—schedule an appointment with the Eye Care Center of Colorado Springs today. Our team is here to help you find lasting relief and keep your vision sharp.
