Chronic dry eye, a condition also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye syndrome, occurs when the eyes do not produce an adequate amount of natural tears. Women over the age of 65 are at the highest risk of developing chronic dry eye symptoms, according to the American Optometric Association. Patients who develop chronic dry eye symptoms should speak with an ophthalmologist for further evaluation, care and treatment.
Eye Irritation
Patients with chronic dry eye can exhibit persistent eye irritation as a symptom of this condition. The eyes of an affected patient can appear unusually red or bloodshot. Certain patients can also develop unusual sensations or stinging, scratchiness or burning within the affected eye, explains MayoClinic.com. These sensations can be uncomfortable and can lead to eye pain in certain patients.
Blurred Vision
Low levels of naturally-occurring fluid within the eye can lead to vision problems in certain patients. Affected patients may experience frequently blurred or cloudy vision as a symptom of chronic dry eye, report health officials with the National Eye Institute (NEI), a division of the National Institutes of Health. Episodes of blurred vision can be problematic and may impact a patient's ability to move about normally without assistance. Patients who experience long-lasting vision problems, or become dizzy or faint, due to blurred vision should seek additional medical care immediately.
Eye Discharge
Excessive eye tearing or discharge can occur as a symptom of chronic dry eye in certain patients. This watery, stringy discharge is typically temporary and can contribute to vision-related problems in patients with chronic dry eye. Unusual tearing is typically followed by a prolonged period of exceedingly dry eyes, reports the NEI. Patients who develop eye discharge should contact a doctor for further care as this chronic dry eye symptom can be a sign of an eye infection.
Eye Fatigue
Chronic dry eye can cause patients to experience abnormal eye fatigue as a symptom of this condition. As a result, affected patients may only be able to read or work at the computer for short spans of time before eye pain or irritation arises. Eye fatigue due to chronic dry eye may also be accompanied by a sensation of heaviness within the eyelids. These chronic dry eye symptoms can negatively affect a patient's ability to complete normal, daily tasks. Patients who experience persistent or severe dry eye symptoms should consult a doctor for further evaluation and care.
