Understanding Advanced Dry Eye: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Dry eye is a common and often chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort, irritation, and potential vision problems. While mild dry eye can be managed with over-the-counter eye drops and lifestyle changes, more advanced cases may require specialized treatment.
 

Causes of Dry Eye

There are several potential causes of dry eye, and it's important to identify the root cause to ensure effective treatment. Some of the most common causes include:

• Aging: As you get older, your tear production naturally decreases, making you more susceptible to dry eye.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production and contribute to dry eye.
• Medical conditions: Conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can disrupt the tear production process and lead to dry eye.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments, as well as prolonged screen time, can increase tear evaporation and cause dry eye.
• Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and blepharitis: These conditions, which affect the oil-producing glands in the eyelids, can lead to reduced tear quality and quantity, contributing to dry eye.

Understanding the underlying cause of your dry eye is crucial for finding the right treatment plan.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

The symptoms of dry eye can range from mild to severe, and they may vary depending on the underlying cause and the stage of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms of dry eye include:

• Burning, stinging, or irritated eyes: This is often one of the first and most noticeable symptoms of dry eye.
• Redness: Dry eyes can become red and inflamed, especially if the condition is left untreated.
• Sensitivity to light: Dry eyes can be more sensitive to bright lights, sunlight, or even indoor lighting.
• Blurred vision: Dry eyes can cause your vision to become blurred, particularly when reading, using a computer, or performing other close-up tasks.
• Feeling like there is something in your eye: This sensation, known as a "foreign body feeling," is common in people with dry eye.
• Excessive tearing: Dry eye can sometimes cause your eyes to produce excess tears in an attempt to compensate for the lack of moisture.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek the advice of an eye care professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
 

Advanced Treatments for Dry Eye

For more advanced cases of dry eye, there are several specialized treatment options available. These treatments are designed to address the underlying causes of the condition and provide long-term relief. Some of the most effective advanced treatments for dry eye include:
 

Autologous serum eye drops are made from your own blood, which is processed to extract the serum (the liquid portion of the blood). This serum contains a variety of growth factors, vitamins, and proteins that can help nourish and heal the surface of your eyes, reducing inflammation and improving tear quality.
 

Similar to autologous serum eye drops, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) eye drops are made from your own blood, but with a higher concentration of platelets. Platelets are rich in growth factors that can stimulate tissue repair and regeneration, making PRP eye drops an effective treatment for advanced dry eye.
 

An amniotic membrane ocular graft is a thin, transparent membrane derived from the amniotic sac of a human placenta. When applied to the surface of the eye, it can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and improve tear film quality in cases of severe dry eye.
 

In some cases, short-term use of topical steroid eye drops may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and provide relief from dry eye symptoms. However, long-term use of steroids can have side effects, so they are typically used as a temporary measure.
 

Prescription immunomodulators, such as cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra), are designed to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the eyes. These medications can be effective in treating advanced dry eye, particularly when other treatments have not provided sufficient relief.
 

It's important to work closely with your optometrist to determine the best advanced treatment option for your specific dry eye condition. They will consider the underlying causes, the severity of your symptoms, and your overall health to develop a personalized treatment plan.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Eastern Virginia Eye Associates Today

Dry eye is a complex and often chronic condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and advanced treatment options is crucial for managing this condition and restoring your eye health.
 

At Eastern Virginia Eye Associates we offer a range of advanced treatments, including autologous serum eye drops, platelet-rich plasma eye drops, and prescription immunomodulators, to provide personalized and effective care. Visit our office in Chesapeake, Virginia, or call (757) 607-4800 to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards regaining control of your eye health.