If you’ve found yourself squinting a little more than usual lately, you’re not alone. Many adults struggle with vision issues such as astigmatism and dry eyes, both of which can significantly affect a person’s day-to-day life. But can one condition exacerbate the other? Specifically, can dry eyes make astigmatism worse?
While dry eyes do not directly cause astigmatism, they can influence the severity of its symptoms.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between these two common vision issues and give you the information you need to feel prepared for your next eye exam.
Understanding Dry Eyes
Dry eyes occur when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. The result is discomfort and potential vision problems. Tears play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the front of the eye by providing lubrication and protecting the surface of the eye from irritants.
When tear production is insufficient, symptoms like irritation, redness, blurred vision, and a gritty or sandy sensation in the eyes may result.
Several factors can contribute to dry eyes, including the natural process of aging, which often results in reduced tear production. Environmental conditions, such as exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air, can also exacerbate dry eye symptoms by accelerating the evaporation of tears.
Additionally, prolonged screen time without adequate breaks can lead to a decreased rate of blinking, further reducing tear coverage on the eye’s surface. Certain medications, like antihistamines and antidepressants, may also decrease tear production as a side effect.
Understanding and addressing these factors can help in managing and alleviating the discomfort associated with dry eyes.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common refractive error arising from an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Typically, the cornea is spherical, allowing light to focus precisely on the retina. However, in those with astigmatism, the eye may assume a more oval or football-like shape. This irregular curvature causes light to focus on multiple points within the eye rather than a single point on the retina, resulting in blurry or distorted vision at all distances.
Due to its impact on visual clarity, astigmatism can lead to difficulties performing everyday tasks like reading or driving. Astigmatism often occurs alongside other refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), where close objects are clear but distant ones are blurred, and hyperopia (farsightedness), where distant objects are seen more clearly than close ones.
It’s important to have regular eye exams to diagnose and correct astigmatism. Common treatments include lenses (in the form of glasses or contacts) or corrective procedures like laser eye surgery.
The Connection Between Dry Eyes and Astigmatism
While dry eyes do not directly cause astigmatism, they can influence the severity of its symptoms. When the surface of the eye is dry, it becomes uneven, affecting the way that light is refracted onto the retina. This irregularity can exacerbate the visual distortions that astigmatism causes, leading to increased blurriness and discomfort.
Some of the effects of dry eyes on astigmatism include:
- Fluctuating Vision: Dry eyes can cause intermittent blurriness, making it difficult for individuals with astigmatism to maintain clear vision. The lack of adequate tear film can lead to fluctuating focus, which can be particularly frustrating during activities that require sustained attention, like reading or driving.
- Increased Eye Strain: When your eyes are dry, you tend to blink less often, especially during activities like using a computer or watching TV. This can strain the eyes further, compounding the effects of astigmatism and leading to headaches and fatigue.
- Impaired Contact Lens Use: For those who manage astigmatism with contact lenses, dry eyes can make wearing lenses uncomfortable or even painful. This reduced lubrication can cause contact lenses to shift out of place, leading to blurred vision and irritation.
Managing Dry Eyes and Astigmatism
Fortunately, there are ways to manage both dry eyes and astigmatism, minimizing their impact on your vision and quality of life.
Tips for Managing Dry Eyes
Some tips for managing dry eyes include:
- Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help provide relief by supplementing your natural tear production. Look for preservative-free options for frequent use.
- Adjust Your Environment: Reduce exposure to wind, smoke, and dry air. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, particularly in arid climates or heated indoor environments.
- Take Screen Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This can help reduce eye strain and encourage blinking.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain overall hydration, including in your eyes. Staying well-hydrated can improve tear quality and quantity.
Addressing Astigmatism
While astigmatism cannot be cured, it can be corrected. Common treatments include:
- Corrective Lenses: Prescription glasses or contact lenses designed for astigmatism can correct the irregular refraction of light, improving vision clarity.
- Laser Surgery: Procedures like LASIK can reshape the cornea, reducing or eliminating astigmatism. Consult with an eye care professional to determine whether you are a suitable candidate.
- Regular Eye Exams: Regular visits to your eye doctor can ensure your prescription is up-to-date and help monitor any changes in your vision health.
Consider Booking an Appointment with InVision Eyecare
Remember: while dry eyes cannot cause astigmatism, they can amplify its symptoms, making it essential to address both conditions simultaneously. By understanding the link between dry eyes and astigmatism and implementing practical management strategies, you can maintain good vision health and improve your overall quality of life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eyes or astigmatism, consider booking an appointment with InVision Eyecare in Saskatoon, SK. Our team of experienced optometrists can assess your vision health, provide personalized treatment options, and help you manage these conditions effectively.
Don’t wait until your vision becomes a constant source of discomfort—take the first step towards clearer, more comfortable vision today.
