Not all "Dry Eyes" are equal
How many times have you heard someone say: "I suffer from dry eyes" or "I cannot wear contact lenses due to my dry eyes"? Dry eyes are very common, but still people are not well educated regarding this condition.
Dry eyes occur due to an inadequate tear volume or function, resulting in an unstable tear film. Because your tear film is there to protect your eyes, if unstable, it can cause irritable symptoms and even damage your eyes.
Your tear film has three layers: Lipid, Aqueous and Mucin layers. These layers interact in many interesting ways and are tremendously more complex than once thought. We are still learning about the tear film and its many functions. Each layer is secreted by different glands, called meibomian, lacrimal and goblet cells. The outer lipid layer helps stop evaporation of the aqueous layer and acts as a surfactant. The middle aqueous layer has an antibacterial function and also provides oxygen to the cornea. The inner mucin layer provides lubrication and helps the tear film "stick" to the eye.
So now you can understand that if the production of any of these layers is affected, the properties of your tear film can be affected. Some common causes of dry eye include:
- Aging
- Hormonal changes, including menopause
- Environmental factors
- Autoimmune diseases, including Sjögren's Syndrome
- Certain types of medications
- Contact lens wear
- LASIK and other refractive surgeries
- Reduced blinking
- Other health conditions
How do I know I have "Dry Eyes"?
Optometrists and Ophthalmologists can conduct special tests that are very quick and painless to diagnose dry eye.Can Dry eye be cured?
Again, all depends on the cause for the tear film disturbance, but generally dry eye is not curable. Treatment is structured around the control of symptoms and prevention of ocular damage.
What treatment options are there?
There are many treatment regimes that can be followed, but the main cause of your dry eyes will determine if the treatment you are following will work or not. From reviewing your work environment and education on computer use, to punctual occlusion and speciality eye drops. Your eye care professional will be able to assist you.Can I use any eye drops?
NO!! All eye drops are not the same. Some drops are for red eyes, some for allergies, some lubricate, and others dilate. You should never place drops in your eye if you are not well educated about the product.For more information of dry eyes, eye care products or anything related, phone Werner Fourie Optometrists (044) 873 4888, email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit us on the C/o Courtenay & Wellington street (below Plush, next to Goldwagen). Visit our website at www.wernerfourieoptom.co.za. Also feel free to email us if you have any queries that you would like to ask us about or would like us to do an article about; we will gladly try and assist.
