Columbus – “Dry eye disease (DED)” is a condition that occurs when tears do not provide adequate lubrication for the eyes. The discomfort that results from dry eyes may affect vision. In addition, according to the National Eye Institute (NEI), if severe dry eye goes untreated, it can sometimes damage the cornea, the clear outer layer at the front of the eye.
The Ohio Affiliate of Prevent Blindness has declared July as “Dry Eye Awareness Month” to provide free resources to providers and the public on dry eye, including fact sheets and shareable social media graphics available in English and Spanish, and a dedicated web page. Additionally, as part of the Focus on Eye Health Expert Series, Stephanie Marioneaux, MD, cornea and external disease specialist, and Prevent Blindness America board of directors member, provides detailed information in the recent “Dry Eye” episode.
OCuSOFT Inc., a privately-held eye and skin care company dedicated to innovation in eyelid hygiene and ocular health, is once again partnering with Prevent Blindness in support of Dry Eye Awareness Month.
Mental health may also be affected by dry eye. A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that depression was associated with more severe dry eye symptoms and overall signs, suggesting that among patients with moderate to severe DED, those with depression may be likely to have more severe DED. According to the study conclusion, the findings support consideration of depression as a comorbidity when managing patients with DED.
Symptoms of dry eye include:
Burning or stinging
Particles in the eye
Gritty, sandy feeling
Itchiness
Redness and inflammation
Stringy mucus
Extreme sensitivity, especially to cigarette smoke
Transient blurry vision
Increased sensitivity to light
Having these symptoms may mean that you have dry eye, but they may also be caused by other conditions. A thorough evaluation by an eye doctor is needed to determine the exact cause of these vision symptoms.
“Dry eye can have lasting, damaging effects if left untreated,” said
Amy Pulles, President & CEO of the Ohio Affiliate of Prevent Blindness. “An exam by an eyecare professional can equip patients with a treatment plan that protects vision and improves mental health.”
For more information on dry eye, please visit the Prevent Blindness resource page at preventblindness.org/understanding-dry-eye, or call Prevent Blindness, Ohio Affiliate at 800-301-2020 or at pbohio.org.
