OPHTHALMOLOGY Gregory Eippert, MD

Gregory Eippert, MD

Q: I spend a lot of times outdoors and often experience dry eyes where my eyes feel gritty and sandy. This happens indoors as well, particularly during the winter. Is there anything I can do to reduce or eliminate the discomfort from dry eyes? A: Every time we blink, the eyes make a natural tear film that keeps the eyes moist, protected, and clean. Tears are more than just water. They contain nutrients, electrolytes, proteins, and lubricants to keep your eyes healthy. If your eyes don’t make the right amount or the right kind of tears, the tear film can break down creating dry spots on the eye surface. This condition is known as dry eye syndrome or DES. Symptoms may include a stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation, blurry vision, difficulty wearing contact lenses, and watery eyes. Tearing and sharp, quick pain in the eyes is often an indication that the eyes are dry. Many factors can affect dry eye symptoms. Outdoors, exposure to smoke, dust, wind, pollen, extreme heat and cold, and dry climates can increase tear evaporation and affect dry eye symptoms. Indoor conditions such as forced-air heating and cooling that create dust and produce very dry air can also exacerbate dry eyes. Other factors that can contribute to dry eyes include: age – dry eye symptoms tend to increase as we get older; medications – certain medications such as antihistamines, decongestants and others can reduce tear production; and medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and thyroid problems are more likely to have symptoms of dry eyes. There are several steps you can take to reduce symptoms of dry eyes. 1) Use artificial tears or gels, available over-the-counter, along with ophthalmic eye ointment at bedtime as a first line of therapy. 2) For moderate to severe cases of dry eye, contact your eye doctor who may prescribe Restasis, a prescription medication specifically for DES. Your eye doctor can also place punctal plugs in the tear duct that help the eye keep more of its tears rather than being drained out. 3) Remember to blink regularly especially when reading or staring at a computer screen or other electronic devices for long periods of time. 4) Taking Omega 3 fish oil and flaxseed supplements can help maintain a healthy tear film. 5) Wear sunglasses outdoors, particularly those with wraparound frames, to reduce exposure to drying winds and the sun and help slow tear evaporation. 6) Indoors, using an air cleaner to filter out dust and other air borne irritants. A humidifier may also help add moisture to the air. DES, a long-term and often chronic condition, can be managed. Talk with your eye doctor about the best treatment options for you. 9485 Mentor Ave., #110, Mentor 44060 440-255-1115 www.opivision.com