How Dry Eye Affects Vision

Dry eye is a common and often chronic condition that occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including irritation, redness, and blurred vision. Understanding the nature of dry eye and how it impacts your eyesight is the first step in managing this condition effectively.

Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, both environmental and physiological. Understanding the root causes of your dry eye can help you and your eye care professional develop an effective treatment plan.
 

Some of the most common causes of dry eye include:
 

• Aging: As you get older, the production of tears can naturally decrease, leading to dry eye.
• Medication: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production and contribute to dry eye.
• Medical conditions: Conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can disrupt the normal functioning of your tear glands.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments, as well as prolonged screen time, can accelerate tear evaporation and lead to dry eye.
• Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those experienced during pregnancy or menopause, can impact tear production.

Recognizing the Signs of Dry Eye

The symptoms of dry eye can vary from person to person, but there are some common signs that you should be aware of:
 

• Persistent eye irritation, burning, or stinging
• Redness or inflammation of the eyes
• Sensitivity to light or glare
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Feeling like there is something in your eye
• Excessive tearing or watery eyes (a response to the dryness)
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Discomfort or pain when using digital screens for extended periods

How Dry Eye Affects Your Eyesight

Dry eye can have a significant impact on your visual acuity and overall eye health. As the cornea and conjunctiva become dry and irritated, the quality of the tear film that covers your eyes can be compromised, leading to various visual disturbances.
 

One of the primary ways dry eye affects your vision is through the disruption of the tear film. The tear film is composed of three layers – the outer lipid layer, the middle aqueous layer, and the inner mucin layer. When this delicate balance is disrupted, the tear film can become unstable, causing the cornea to become uneven and irregular. This can result in blurred or distorted vision, as light is not able to refract properly through the affected cornea.
 

In addition to blurred vision, dry eye can also cause other visual problems, such as:
 

• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Difficulty with night driving or low-light conditions
• Reduced contrast sensitivity, making it harder to distinguish between different shades and colors
• Increased eye strain and fatigue, especially during prolonged visual tasks

Over time, if left untreated, dry eye can also lead to more serious complications, such as corneal damage, scarring, and even vision loss. Seeking prompt treatment and actively managing your dry eye condition is crucial for maintaining optimal eye health and visual function.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Drs. Hiura & Hiura Optometrists Today

Seeking professional help and following the recommended treatment plan is crucial for effectively managing your dry eye condition and preventing long-term complications. By working closely with your eye care provider, you can take control of your eye health and maintain optimal visual function.

If you're experiencing persistent eye irritation, blurred vision, or other dry eye symptoms, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with our optometrist. We can help diagnose the underlying cause of your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and protect your long-term eye health. Visit Drs. Hiura & Hiura Optometrists at our office in San Francisco, California, or call (415) 776-2352 to book an appointment today.