What is Dry Eye?

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye is an irritating condition that has millions of women rubbing their eyes. Itchy, burning or scratchy eyes, sometime accompanied by blurred vision or tearing are symptoms of dry eye. About 50% of American adults occasionally suffer dry eye syndrome, which is often misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed. If dry eye is left untreated, it can lead to infection and even loss of vision.

Dry eye has many causes. Some of them are as follows:
* Exposure to blasting heat, air conditioning, or cold wind.
* Spending hours in front of a computer.
* Eating spicy foods.

To keep your eyes lubricated, your tears must include adequate amounts of meibum, an oily substance that prevents tears from evaporating quickly.

Though many health conditions can cause dry eye, meibomian gland related issues are the most common.

Some treatments for dry eye are as follows:
* Blinking exercises- When you stare at a computer screen for long periods of time, you blink less often. This can lead to dry eye. Meibum is produced every time you blink. Force yourself to blink often at least twice every 5 or 10 minutes.
* Eye Yoga- Move the eyes up and down, from side to side and in circles.
* Eye massage- Massaging your upper and lower eyelids can keep meibomian glands flowing. This is a simple exercise that involves rolling yoru finger or a cotton swab in small circles around each eyelid.

Did you know that drinking a cup of caffeinated coffee can stimulate your eye nerves to significantly increase moisture production within 45 minutes?

Hope this helps