Relief From Dry, Irritated Eyes is Within Reach
Dry eye is an incredibly uncomfortable condition that affects an estimated 16 million Americans. Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough good quality tears to keep the eyes continuously moist.
Good quality tears are made of 3 layers — an oil layer, water layer, and mucin layer. All 3 layers work together to keep the eye’s surface smooth and clear.
The oil layer comes from oil secreted by the meibomian glands. These oils stop the tears from evaporating too quickly. Dysfunction of the meibomian glands is the number one cause of dry eye.
The water layer cleans the eye and washes away any particles that may irritate the eye, such as dust or sand. The lacrimal glands in the eyelids produce the water layer.
The mucin layer spreads the water layer across the eye’s surface and is produced by goblet cells in the conjunctiva and cornea. Without mucin, tears would not stick to the eye.
If you’re experiencing dry eye, you may have a variety of symptoms that do not go away on their own.
- Itchy or stinging eyes
- Blurred vision
- Red, irritated eyes
- Overly watery eyes
- A scratchy, gritty feeling or the feeling of something stuck in your eye
Additionally, if contact lens wear becomes uncomfortable or painful, please give us a call.
