A very common condition in the Orlando area is dry eye syndrome. The condition happens for many reasons and compromises the eye functions, making simple everyday activities uncomfortable. Fortunately, Lake Nona Eye Care can help give relief and restore the moisture in your eye.
Dry eyes, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is when there is insufficient tears to nourish and lubricate the eye. Tears are important for providing clear vision and keeping the front surface of the eye healthy. Many people either have poor quality tears or don’t produce enough tears, this occurs more often in older adults.
Every time you blink, tears are swept across the cornea. These tears not only provide lubrication, they keep the surface of the eye clear and smooth, wash out any foreign matter, and reduces eye infections.
American Optometric Association, explains how inadequate amount of tears and poor quality of tears can cause Dry Eye Syndrome:
Inadequate amount of tears – Tears are produced by several glands in and around the eyelids. Tear production tends to diminish with age, with various medical conditions, or as a side effect of certain medicines.
Environmental conditions such as wind and dry climates can also affect tear volume by increasing tear evaporation. When the normal amount of tear production decreases or tears evaporate too quickly from the eyes, symptoms of dry eye can develop.
Poor quality of tears – Tears are made up of three layers: oil, water, and mucus. Each component serves a function in protecting and nourishing the front surface of the eye. A smooth oil layer helps to prevent evaporation of the water layer, while the mucin layer functions in spreading the tears evenly over the surface of the eye. If the tears evaporate too quickly or do not spread evenly over the cornea due to deficiencies with any of the three tear layers, dry eye symptoms can develop.”
The best step towards relief from irritating dry eye syndrome is a comprehensive exam at Lake Nona Eye Care. Treatments can include; increase tear production with prescription eye drops, supplements to help the production of natural tears, and Scleral contact lenses giving relief for those who wear contacts, just to name a few.
Contact Lake Nona Eye Care for relief from dry eyes!