Millions of people worldwide suffer from dry eye. It occurs when there is insufficient tear production or rapid tear evaporation. While it is typically a chronic condition, the long-term effects of dry eye can affect your eye health if left untreated. In this post, we'll outline some of the long-term effects of dry eye and what you can do to prevent them.
Long-term Effects of Dry Eye
Dry eye can pave the road for serious problems if left unmanaged. Here are 3 long-term effects of dry eye if left untreated:
Corneal Damage
Your cornea is the clear, protective outer layer of your eye. Dry eye and the lack of lubrication causes the cornea to become irritated and inflamed. Over time, this can lead to corneal damage, including abrasions, ulcers, and scarring. If left untreated, corneal damage can lead to vision loss.
Increased Risk of Eye Infections
Tears not only keep your eyes lubricated, but they also help to protect your eyes from infections. When you have dry eye, your eyes may be more susceptible to infections. If left untreated, these infections can cause permanent damage to your eyes.
Vision Problems
When your eyes are dry, your vision may become blurry or distorted. This can make it difficult to see clearly and perform everyday tasks, such as driving or reading. Over time, untreated dry eye can lead to more severe vision problems.
Preventing Long-term Effects of Dry Eye
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to treat and prevent the long-term effects of dry eye. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Use Artificial Tears
Using artificial tears can help to keep your eyes lubricated and prevent dryness. Speak with your optometrist to determine the best type of artificial tears for your specific needs.
Manage Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can increase your risk of dry eye. Work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions and avoid the long-term effects of dry eye.
Avoid Environmental Triggers
Exposure to smoke, wind and bright sunlight can worsen dry eye symptoms. If possible, avoid these triggers and take steps to protect your eyes.
Dry eye can have long-term effects on your eye health if left untreated. If you're experiencing dry eye symptoms, seek treatment before it’s too late!
Contact the Team at Pacific Eye Doctors Today!
At Pacific Eye Doctors in Maple Ridge, our goal is to assist you to manage your dry eye symptoms effectively. Book a consultation with us and get on track to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable all day, every day.