Dry eyes are more than just an irritating problem—they can seriously impact your vision. Many people experience the discomfort of dry eyes without realizing the potential consequences of leaving the condition untreated.
Dry eyes do not directly cause blindness. However, if left unmanaged, chronic dry eyes can lead to:
- Inflammation
- Damage to the eye’s surface
- Scarring on the surface of the eye which could impair vision
To manage dry eye effectively, our Dry Eye Clinic at InVision Eyecare utilizes cutting-edge treatments such as Intense Regulated Pulsed Light (IRPL) and in-office meibomian gland expression. These treatments target the root causes of dry eye, providing significant relief to our patients. IRPL uses light pulses to reduce inflammation and improve gland function, while meibomian gland expression helps unblock glands, improving oil flow into the tear film.
It’s important to seek proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent these complications and ensure long-term eye health. Regular check-ups with your optometrist can help manage symptoms and maintain optimal vision.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears and/or when the tears evaporate too quickly.
Tears are essential for maintaining eye health because they keep the surface of your eyes lubricated and clear of debris. When this lubrication is lacking, it can lead to discomfort and vision issues.
Dry eye can be caused by many things, including:
- Aging
- Certain medications
- Environmental conditions
The most common cause of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a common condition in which the meibomian glands in the eyelids don’t produce enough oil, leading to tears evaporating too quickly.
Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Dry eye symptoms can vary from person to person, but some common signs include:
- Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
- Redness and irritation
- A gritty feeling, as if there’s something in your eye
- Blurred vision, especially after prolonged periods of reading or computer use
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Understandably, the symptoms can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but addressing the issue early on can make a significant difference. Symptoms of dry eye, particularly those caused by MGD, can be effectively managed with treatments like IRPL and in-office meibomian gland expression.
Dry Eye & Blindness
One of the most pressing questions people have is whether dry eyes can lead to blindness. While dry eyes don’t directly cause blindness, they can contribute to conditions that may result in severe vision impairment if left untreated.
Chronic dry eye syndrome can increase the risk of developing infections in the eyes, which can damage the cornea and lead to vision loss. Additionally, severe dry eyes can cause corneal ulcers, which are open sores on the cornea that can scar and impair vision.
Although it is rare for dry eyes alone to cause blindness, the complications that arise from untreated dry eyes can have serious consequences.
Other Complications of Untreated Dry Eyes
Aside from the risk of vision loss, untreated dry eyes can lead to several other complications that can affect your overall eye health. These complications include:
- Corneal abrasions: Tiny scratches on the surface of the cornea caused by friction due to inadequate lubrication.
- Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer covering the white part of your eye, leading to redness and irritation.
- Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea, which can result in pain, redness, and vision changes.
These complications can cause significant discomfort and potentially lead to more severe eye problems if not addressed.
Preventing Vision Loss from Dry Eyes
Preventing vision loss from dry eyes involves addressing the underlying causes and taking proactive measures to maintain eye health. Some steps you can take include:
- Using artificial tears: Over-the-counter oil-based eye drops can help lubricate your eyes and provide relief from dryness.
- Maintaining a healthy diet: Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and flaxseed, can support tear production.
- Lifestyle changes: Adjusting your environment and habits, such as taking regular breaks from screen time and blinking more frequently, can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
- Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your eyes moist.
- Protecting your eyes: Wearing sunglasses and using a humidifier can help shield your eyes from environmental irritants.
Treatment Options for Dry Eyes
There are several treatment options available for managing dry eyes, depending on the severity of your condition. These treatments include:
- Over-the-counter eye drops: Artificial oil-based tears can provide temporary relief for mild dry eyes.
- Prescription medications: Your eye doctor may prescribe medications to increase tear production or reduce inflammation.
- Intense regulated pulsed light (IRPL) therapy: A treatment specifically for meibomian gland dysfunction, the most common cause of dry eyes. This treatment helps reduce inflammation and improves the function of the meibomian glands, which produce the lipid (oil) layer of the tears that reduces evaporation of tears.
- Meibomian gland expression: Often used alongside IRPL, meibomian gland expressions involve applying pressure to the eyelids using small forceps or paddle-like instruments. This technique aids in expressing the glands and clearing any obstructed oils, promoting eye health and comfort.
- Punctal plugs: Tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to help retain moisture on the surface of your eyes.
Consulting with a healthcare professional can help you determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience persistent dry eye symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments, make sure you get help. Your optometrist can diagnose the underlying cause of your dry eyes and recommend appropriate treatments.
Some signs that you should seek professional help include:
- Severe or persistent eye pain
- Sudden vision changes
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Eye redness that doesn’t go away
Treat Your Dry Eyes Today
Dry eyes can significantly impact your vision and overall quality of life. While dry eyes alone are unlikely to cause blindness, the complications that can arise from untreated dry eyes could lead to vision impairment.
If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Book an appointment with InVision Eyecare to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.
Taking proactive steps to manage dry eyes can significantly improve vision and quality of life.
