Dry eye occurs for two main reasons. Either the glands around the eyelids cannot produce enough tears to keep the eye's surface lubricated, or the tears the glands produce have a poor quality, failing to provide adequate nourishment and moisture. Both causes of dry eye will result in similar symptoms and require the same types of treatment. However, people should know the signs of dry eye and discuss their symptoms with an eye doctor before beginning a treatment regimen.
Discomfort
If the eye does not have an even, adequate coating of tear film, the surface will often have a burning sensation. The eye may also feel scratchy, as if a grain of sand is in it. This scratchy feeling will typically persist, and the irritation may increase as dry eye conditions worsen. Dry patches on the eye surface may cause small, open patches that will not heal properly without the tear film.
Dry eye also increases the risk for eye infections, states the University of Illinois at Chicago. This can further irritate the eye's surface. Using nonprescription artificial tears may help reduce discomfort and prevent additional problems. People with severe discomfort may wish to keep the artificial tears in the refrigerator. The cold tear against the eye's surface might offer short-term relief.
Blurry Vision
Each blink of the eye coats the eye's surface with tears, according to the American Optometric Association. With proper tear film, the eyelids evenly coat the eye, providing a clear window for vision. However, dry eye may cause an uneven coating of the surface, resulting in blurry vision. In most cases, the vision will not remain blurry but will improve with a series of rapid blinks.
Many people who spend a significant amount of time working on a computer or reading may notice vision changes. Concentration on visual tasks often reduces the number of time a person blinks, resulting in eye dryness. Artificial tears help improve vision, and people may elect to use artificial tears before working on a computer or reading in order to prevent blurriness before it occurs.
Tearing
Dry eyes often cause excessive tearing. Tearing occurs as the body's response to the dryness and discomfort. Though a watery eye does not sound like dryness, the tearing washes away the nourishing qualities of the tear film, which only adds to the condition. Eye doctors will begin by recommending artificial tears. However, if symptoms of tearing do not improve, the doctor may recommend inserting punctal plugs, small inserts to block the tear ducts, explains MayoClinic.com. This may help keep the tears in the eye before the nourishing tear film is washed out. Over time, this may reduce most dry eye symptoms, and some people choose to have their tear ducts closed permanently with cauterization.
