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Tears are often associated with our emotions. Tears can express joy, sadness, anger or surprise. But our tears also have a vital role in the health of our eyes, protecting our vision by providing lubrication and washing away dirt and dust. An inadequate production of tears, commonly referred to as dry eye, is a condition that can go from annoying to chronic if not addressed by an eye care specialist like the optometrists at Dr. Shipley & Associates.
Regular visits to the optometrist are a great way to protect your vision and detect and treat conditions like dry eye. Our optometrists have extensive training and the latest technology for accurately testing and evaluating the health and performance of your eyes. We have multiple treatment options and guidelines for patients suffering from dry eye, which affects some five million Americans over the age of fifty.
Dry eye produces symptoms including a scratchy or burning feeling in the eyes, blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and redness. The dryness may be caused by an inadequate supply of tears, or tears that don’t contain the necessary nutrients to protect and nourish the front surface of the eye, known as the cornea. Age is certainly a major factor, as are the side effects of a number of over the counter and prescription medications. People with diabetes, thyroid disease, and rheumatoid arthritis tend to be at a higher risk, as are women, likely due to pregnancy and hormonal changes. Spending too much time in front of a computer, and in air-conditioned or heated spaces can worsen the problem.
Your vision is precious, and the optometrists at Dr. Shipley & Associates want to help you protect and preserve it for years to come. Regular visits to our comfortable, modern offices will ensure that conditions like dry eye don’t become serious. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule an examination.
By Dr. Shipley & Associates
December 27, 2021
