Dry Eye
Sometimes people do not produce enough tears to keep
the eye wet and comfortable. As a result, they experience stinging, burning,
scratchiness, stringy mucus, and excess irritation from smoke. Dry eyes can
often cause problems with contact lenses making it impossible to wear contact
lenses.
As contradicting as it may sound, increased tearing
may be a symptom of dry eyes. If the basic tear secretion is below normal,
excess tears are produced by the lacrimal gland in response to the
irritation. Even though the eye is basically dry, overflow tearing can occur,
masking the dryness which caused them in the first place.
How are dry eyes diagnoses?
Dr. Cravey may be able to diagnose dry eyes by simply
examining the eyes. Sometimes tests which measure tear production may be
necessary. One test that is often used involves the placement of filter paper
strips under the lower eyelids to measure the rate of tear production under
various conditions.
What type of treatment is available for dry eyes?
A person suffering from dry eyes may only need
over-the-counter artificial tears, but since extreme dryness can cause serious
damage to the eye, an examination and diagnosis by Dr. Cravey is suggested.
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