Below are questions and answers regarding Dry Eyes that we believe are beneficial to our patients. If you do not find the information you are looking for, please contact our office (601) 353-2020 and someone will be able to assist you.

Q. What is Chronic Dry Eye?


A. Chronic Dry Eye, sometimes called dry eye disease, is a common condition that can result in localized inflammation on both the eye surface, as well as the tear-producing glands. Over time, inflammation can decrease the eye’s ability to produce tears that protect the surface of the eye and keep it moist and lubricated. This, in turn, can lead to damage to the eye’s surface. If left untreated, severe forms of the condition can lead to more serious problems, including increased risk of infection and possibly visual impairment.

Q. What are the causes of Chronic Dry Eye?


A. Chronic Dry Eye can be caused by a functional problem in the tear-producing glands of the eye. This can result in a declining quality of tears. High risk factors for this condition include those individuals with health factors such as hormonal changes associated with aging and menopause, autoimmune diseases such as arthritis, lupus, and Sjögren’s Syndrome. Medical conditions such as diabetes also can contribute to its onset.

Q. What about allergies and weather conditions?


A. Environmental, occupational, and lifestyle factors, such as allergies, smoke, dry air, the wearing of contact lenses for extended periods of time or prolonged computer use can aggravate Chronic Dry Eye, but they are not the cause. A cause of Chronic Dry Eye can be a dysfunction of the tear-producing gland which can result in reduced production of tears.

Q. How do I know if I have it?


A. Your eye doctor can check your eyes for clinical signs of Chronic Dry Eye. He or she may use several quick and painless tests to measure visual clarity, tear production, surface dryness, and damage to the cornea or conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids). Your eye doctor may find it helpful if you describe your condition in detail.

Q. What do artificial tears do?


A. Artificial tears can provide temporary symptom relief and help lubricate eyes with Chronic Dry Eye. But they do not increase your natural ability to produce tears which may be suppressed by inflammation due to Chronic Dry Eye. With prolonged use, artificial tears can actually disrupt the eye’s natural tear production, and lead to further aggravation of the condition, washing away the natural infection fighting tear film.

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