If some of these symptoms sound familiar, don't worry. You are not alone. It is estimated that approximately 1 out of every 5 Americans suffer from Dry Eye Syndrome.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?
There are many factors that lead to Dry Eye Syndrome. One of the most common is simply aging. Tear production normally decreases as we age, however Dry Eye can occur at any age.

Other factors that contribute to Dry Eye include environmental factors as well as the use of certain prescription and over-the-counter medications. Dry climate, cigarette smoke, wind, and heating and air conditioning can definitely have an effect on your eyes. Among some of the drugs that can cause Dry Eye are antihistamines, beta-blockers, diuretics, pain relievers, and sleeping pills. If you feel like you may be suffering from Dry Eye Syndrome, it is important to let your doctor know which medications you are currently taking.

How Do I Know for Sure Whether or Not I Have Dry Eye Syndrome?
As always, the only way to know for sure whether or not you may be suffering from "dry eyes" is to see your eye care professional. There are ways to check if you may be at an increased risk for Dry Eye Syndrome.

What are Some Common Ways to Treat Dry Eye Syndrome?
Adding Tears: One way that the symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome can be alleviated is by using artificial tears, or "eye-drops". These artificial tears are similar to natural tears and help lubricate and maintain moisture in the eyes. Artificial tears are available without a prescription. In more severe cases, some doctors recommend an oil-based ointment to be used at night, and an artificial tear solution to be used during the day. Other options are available. OCuSOFT® has several great new products that offer a new alternative for the treatment of Dry Eye including Tears Again® Night & Day™ Lubricant Gel, Tears Again® Gel Drops™, and OCuSOFT® Lid Scrub

Conserving Natural Tears: Another method your doctor may use to help your Dry Eye problem is to try to conserve your natural tears. This is accomplished by your doctor temporarily or permanently closing or 'plugging' your 'tear ducts'. Your tear ducts, also known as the punctums, are small channels or drains that connect from your eyelids to your nose in which excess tears are meant to drain through (that's why your nose runs when you cry). Doctors can plug the punctums, keeping the tears from draining out and helping them stay on the eye, where they are needed, therefore conserving tears naturally.

Other Methods: There are some simple things that you can do to help keep your eyes in healthy condition. A humidifier can be a great help during the winter when it is necessary to run the heater. Wrap-around sunglasses can help if there is a problem of excess wind. Cigarette smoke is also best to be avoided by people with Dry Eye. For the best treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome, see your ophthalmologist or optometrist.

Need help finding an eye doctor in your area? OCuSOFT has an extensive database of doctors that we work with. Please visit our doctor referral page for more information.