Why You Should Keep Your Eyes Hydrated: Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome 

Our eyes are incredible organs, constantly working to help us navigate the world. To stay comfortable and healthy, they often require consistent, dedicated care. If you’ve ever experienced persistent stinging, burning, or a gritty sensation, you might be dealing with dry eye syndrome. This common condition affects millions, including many residents right here in Fargo and Moorhead, impacting daily life and even vision quality. Understanding dry eye and how to keep your eyes properly hydrated is key to finding lasting relief. 

What is Dry Eye Syndrome? 

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears they do produce aren’t of the right quality. Tears aren’t just for crying; they’re essential for lubricating your eyes, washing away foreign particles, and providing vital nutrients. A healthy tear film has three main layers: 

• Water: The thickest layer, providing hydration and nutrients. 
• Mucus: Helps spread the watery layer evenly across the eye. 
• Oil: The outermost layer, preventing tears from evaporating too quickly.

If your tear components are unbalanced or tear production is low, your eyes become dry and irritated. Oddly, this can make your eyes water excessively as they attempt to compensate, yet they remain persistently dry.

What Causes Dry Eyes? 

Several factors can contribute to dry eye syndrome: 

• Increased Screen Time: Prolonged use of computers, phones, and other digital devices reduces our blink rate, which is crucial for spreading tear film. This often leads to clogged oil glands in the eyelids, a primary cause of evaporative dry eye. 
• Aging: As we age, tear production naturally decreases. 
• Environmental Factors: Dry climates, wind, smoke, and air conditioning can accelerate tear evaporation. 
• Medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can reduce tear production. 
• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus can be associated with dry eyes. Diabetes and thyroid disorders can also contribute. 
• Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses can sometimes exacerbate dry eye symptoms. 
• Eye Surgery: Procedures like LASIK can temporarily affect tear production. 

Common Questions About Dry Eye Syndrome: 

1. How do I know if I have dry eye syndrome? 

Beyond the persistent dry, gritty, or burning sensation, common symptoms include redness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, a feeling of something in your eye, and even excessive tearing (as your eyes try to overcompensate for dryness). A comprehensive eye exam at Eye Consultants of North Dakota can accurately diagnose dry eye. 

2. Can dry eyes be a sign of a more serious health problem? 

While often a localized issue, dry eyes can sometimes be a symptom of underlying systemic conditions like autoimmune diseases. It’s important to consult with an ophthalmologist to rule out any serious health concerns and ensure proper diagnosis. 

3. What treatments are available for dry eyes? 

Eye Consultants of North Dakota offers a wide range of advanced treatments tailored to your specific needs. These include: 

• Artificial Tears and Medications: Over-the-counter eye drops for mild cases, or prescription medications to stimulate natural tear production. 

• Punctal Plugs: Tiny inserts placed in the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too quickly, keeping them on the eye’s surface longer. 

• Eyelid Cleansing: Specialized cleansers like Ocusoft and Cliradex to remove debris, mites, and contaminants from the eyelids, which can block oil glands. 

• Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to the eyelids can help loosen clogged oil glands and improve tear quality. 

• Specialty Contact Lenses: Scleral lenses, for example, create a fluid reservoir over the cornea, providing continuous hydration. 

• Advanced Therapies: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment and Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) address inflammation and improve meibomian gland function. 

• Surgical Options: In severe cases, procedures like punctual occlusion (permanently sealing tear drains) or using amniotic membranes (tissue grafts) can help heal the eye surface. 

4. Can diet or lifestyle changes help with dry eye? 

Yes, certain lifestyle adjustments can significantly help. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, incorporating omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil, flaxseed, and walnuts) into your diet, and taking regular breaks from screens —following the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds)—can all improve dry eye symptoms. Using a humidifier in dry environments can also be beneficial.  

5. When should I see an eye doctor for dry eyes? 

If you experience persistent dry eye symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter remedies, or if your symptoms are severe and affect your daily life, it’s crucial to seek professional help. An ophthalmologist can determine the root cause and recommend the most effective treatment plan. 

Expertise You Can Trust 

At Eye Consultants of North Dakota, our team of experienced professionals provides comprehensive and compassionate eye care. We utilize the latest diagnostic tools and innovative treatment techniques to ensure optimal eye health for our patients in Fargo, North Dakota, and beyond. 

“Many patients are surprised to learn that their chronic eye irritation isn’t just a nuisance, but a treatable condition called dry eye disease. My goal is to help individuals understand the underlying causes and provide tailored solutions that bring lasting comfort and improve their quality of life.” – Dr. Steven Thom, M.D., Dry Eye Disease Specialist, Eye Consultants of North Dakota. 

Keeping Your Eyes Hydrated: An Actionable Guide 

Here are practical steps you can take to maintain eye hydration and alleviate dry eye symptoms: 

1. Blink More Often: Consciously blink, especially when using digital devices. 

2. Take Screen Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. 

3. Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief. Choose preservative-free options if you use them frequently. 

4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. 

5. Use a Humidifier: Add moisture to the air in your home or office, especially during dry seasons. 

6. Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses outdoors to shield your eyes from wind and sun. 

7. Clean Your Eyelids: Practice good eyelid hygiene, especially if you experience blepharitis. 

8. Consult a Specialist: If symptoms persist, schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist to explore professional treatment options. 

Take the First Step Towards Relief 

Don’t let dry eye discomfort hold you back. The expert team at Eye Consultants of North Dakota is here to help you regain comfortable, clear vision. 

Call us now at 701-235-0561 to schedule an appointment or schedule an appointment online today!