Dry Eye Syndrome is an uncomfortable condition that occurs when your tears do not adequately lubricate your eyes. Some possible causes of this low lubrication may be:
- Inadequate tear production
- low quality tears
- autoimmune disease
- medications
- nerve damage
Our tears have three layers, fatty oils, aqueous fluids and mucous. These three layers work together to keep our eyes clear and the eye surface lubricated. A problem with any of these three layers can cause dry eyes.
Additional Underlying Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry Eye Syndrome is not only caused by an illness. Some external causes may include:
- air conditioning
- wearing contact lenses
- pollution
- wind
- smoke
- low humidity
Eye drops do not always resolve the symptoms, since real tears are impossible to replicate.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome
The most common symptoms of dry eye include:
- burning
- pain
- redness
- excessive tearing
- tired feeling eyes
- sandy feeling in eyes
- blurry vision
You may have one or more of these symptoms. A thorough eye exam is necessary for diagnosis, which would include tear testing form both volume, quality and composition of tears. This testing will help pinpoint the cause of your symptoms.
Treatment Options for Dry Eye Syndrome
Since the cause can vary, a holistic approach is necessary. Holistic medicine helps address the underlying physical conditions that may be causing your symptoms and help to resolve your discomfort. Holistic testing and treatment will aid in finding the optimal solution for your dry eyes. Supplements including:
- Omega 3
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B-12
- Vitamin D
Can be useful in treating dry eye syndrome, other non invasive remedies include:
- warm compresses on eyes
- non-preservative eye drops
- use of a humidifier while inside
- wear sunglasses when outside
- avoid smoke when possible
While Dry Eye Syndrome may be uncomfortable, treatment options are available. Always seek the counsel of a medical professional well versed in holistic treatments and proper use of supplementations.
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