When someone goes in for an annual Eye Exam in Wichita KS, this person is encouraged to tell the optometrist about any new problems with vision or discomfort. One common issue many adults eventually develop is chronic dry eyes, which feel itchy and irritated much of the time. The optometrist can provide recommendations on how to resolve this problem when over-the-counter eye drops aren’t effective enough.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough tears to keep the eyes comfortably lubricated, or when the tears evaporate or drain away too quickly. The issue can be aggravated when people work at computers, since research confirms that computer users tend to blink less than they should as they stare at a screen all day.
Medications Associated With Dry Eyes
Sometimes it turns out that chronic dry eyes are caused by the person’s medication. An optometrist will want to know all medicines the individual takes regularly or occasionally. Some drugs that reduce blood pressure can cause this issue, for example, and so can over-the-counter antihistamines.
Self-Care Techniques
Certain self-care techniques can provide some relief. First, drinking plenty of water every day keeps the body hydrated, which allows the body to increase tear production. After an Eye Exam in Wichita KS, the optometrist may recommend that the patient add omega-3 fatty acid supplements to the nutrition regimen. Prescription-strength eye drops can be more effective at keeping eyes lubricated.
Wearing sunglasses when outside protects the eyes from wind and eyestrain due to ultraviolet light. The Witchita area is known for windy conditions. In fact, the National Women’s Health Resource Center ranks Wichita in 20th place for U.S. cities with dry eye problems. Other troublesome environmental factors associated with chronic dry eyes include low humidity, high altitude and poor air quality.
Duct Plugs
If these efforts are not effective enough, an optometrist with an organization such as Grene Vision Group can close tear ducts with tiny plugs. This stops the tears from draining away too quickly. People can experience dramatic improvements after this procedure. Some who haven’t been able to wear contact lenses for years find they can do so comfortably once again. Visit the website website domain to schedule an appointment.
