Dry eye disease is a non-life-threatening medical condition affecting millions worldwide. People who suffer from dry eyes often complain of a burning or stinging sensation in their eyes and also manifest stringy white mucus in and around their eyes. In addition, they may have watery and easily irritated eyes that also feel like there’s something inside it.
The condition happens because the body cannot produce enough tears to lubricate the eyes properly. Tears are an important component of eyecare as every time we blink, a thin film of tears envelops the eye surface to keep it clean and properly lubricated.
However, when the body cannot produce enough tears, it leads to complications. Often, the tear ducts are blocked by deposits that can be removed surgically or via non-invasive procedures.
Aging is the most common risk factor identified in contracting dry eye syndrome. Doctors also say that antidepressants, antihistamines, decongestants, anti-high blood pressure medicines, and hormone replacement therapy medications can increase the person’s risk factors. Rare conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome, lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, and vitamin A deficiency can also increase risk factors.
Several treatments are available to help people suffering from dry eyes ease their pain and discomfort. Lifestyle changes, such as decreasing the settings on the monitor, following the 20-20-20 rule, and staying in a dimly lit room, can help ease the pain.
Medical procedures such asIPL treatment for dry eyes are recommended as they’re typically safe and produce better tears. Such procedures can improve the function of meibomian glands and remove clusters of material that block such organs.
Dry eye disease is non-life-threatening, but it does directly affect the day-to-day life of people who suffer from the condition. Here are some ways dry eyes affect daily routines.
Frustration
According to several studies, people suffering from dry eye disease (DED) experience frustration because of the various symptoms that affect their way of life.
From the scratchy and itchy sensation of something inside to the presence of stringy and unsightly mucus around the eyes, the constant feeling of needing to rub them, and the discomfort brought about by red and irritated eyes, it’s annoying for most people.
In addition, since most people don’t understand dry eye disease, it can be frustrating to explain themselves repeatedly.
Embarrassment
With the list of symptoms associated with dry eyes, and with many people not aware of such conditions, it can be a source of embarrassment, especially when you feel the sudden urge to rub your eyes and remove any foreign object that irritates them.
You might cause unwanted attention as you vigorously try to relieve yourself from the discomfort you feel. The resultant red eyes can only underscore discomfort and embarrassment, leading to awkward situations.
Lower self-esteem
Women who suffer from DED also tend to have lower self-esteem. They cannot wear contact lenses and makeup, as cosmetics sometimes trigger DED. As a result, they don’t have the recourse to make themselves feel pretty. While it may seem superficial, it does have a huge impact on perception.
Summary
While dry eyes are not life-threatening, they can cause embarrassment and anxiety. Therefore, people must work with doctors to properly manage their conditions to avoid awkward situations.
