Thursday, January 27, 2011

Dry Eye


When your eye doesn't produce enough tears or tears of the appropriate quality, it can cause dry eye which can be very uncomfortable.

What are some of the symptoms?
    * stinging or burning
    * scratchiness
    * stringy mucus around the eye
    * excessive eye irritation
    * excessive tearing

How is it treated?
     Typically with artifical tears - eye drops to lubricate the eye.

Are there ways to prevent or reduce dry eye?
     In winter, run a humidifier or place a pan of water on a radiator to increase moisture in your home.
     For some people, supplementing your diet with omega-3 fatty acids and flax seeds, are helpful.
    Protect yourself when out in the elements, particulary on windy days, with wrap-around glasses.

If these methods don't work, be certain to ask our eye doctors what else might be appropriate for you.