Dry eye disease affects an estimated 60 million Americans and is quickly becoming one of the most common reasons patients are scheduling an appointment with eye care providers.
Tears are essential for healthy eyes and optimal visual performance. If tears are deficient or of incorrect consistency, you can start experiencing symptoms of dry eye inflammation, including: burning, redness, watering, fatigue, vision loss, and even depression.
While there are several causes of dry eye, some of the most common are:
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Age
hormonal changes with birthdays, especially in post-menopausal women
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Environment
increased screen-time on electronic devices, reducing blink frequency
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Medications
commonly used medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and birth control
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Illnesses
diabetes and autoimmune conditions including Sjogren’s syndrome & arthritis
Given it’s increasing prevalence, varying presentations, and persistent disease course, it’s about time we start talking about it. And what better time for a dry eye discussion than in July –Dry Eye Awareness Month!
Our next series of posts will focus on the treatment and management of dry eye disease. Stay tuned weekly for our latest updates!
Dr. Aamena S. Kazmi
Therapeutic Optometrist
The Dry Eye Doctor at BFEC
Check out Just Add Water? A Dry Eye Series by the Dry Eye Doctor
