If you’re one of the millions of people who have chronic dry eye, you know how frustrating and uncomfortable it is. Dry eye may seem harmless, but it can lead to complications and even affect your vision if left untreated. Does that mean dry eyes can lead to blindness? It’s possible, but very unlikely. Severe dry eyes can impact your vision and eye health, but total blindness is rare. Learn more about dry eyes and the risks associated with this condition.
What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye, also known as dry eye syndrome, happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, redness, and in some cases, blurry vision.
There are a few common reasons for this:
- Aging: As we get older, our eyes might not produce as many tears.
- Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid problems can contribute to dry eyes.
- Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure meds, can dry out your eyes.
- Environmental factors: Wind, smoke, and dry climates can make your tears evaporate faster.
- Screen time: Staring at screens for long periods can reduce how often you blink, leading to dry eyes.
Can dry eyes lead to blindness?
Here’s the good news: Not typically. Dry eye syndrome on its own doesn’t usually cause blindness. However, severe and untreated dry eye can lead to complications that might affect your vision, including:
- Corneal damage: Severe dry eye can damage the cornea, the clear front part of your eye. Without enough tears, the cornea can get scratched or develop ulcers, which can be painful and affect your vision. If left untreated, these issues could cause significant vision problems.
- Infections: Tears are crucial for protecting your eyes from infections. They contain proteins and antibodies that fight off harmful bacteria. When your eyes are dry, they’re more prone to infections, leading to serious complications and vision loss if left untreated.
- Inflammation: Chronic dry eye can cause inflammation of the eye’s surface. Persistent inflammation can damage the tissues of your eye, resulting in scarring and vision problems.
When to see a professional
If you’re experiencing persistent dry eye symptoms such as stinging, burning, fluctuating vision, or excessive tearing (yes, watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eye!), it’s important to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam in Littleton. Dr. Adams can recommend treatment options such as artificial tears, prescription medications, lifestyle changes, or in-office procedures to help relieve your symptoms and prevent further complications.
Lifestyle changes can help you manage your dry eyes more effectively. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, take frequent breaks when using digital devices to reduce eye strain and related dry eyes, wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from harsh UV rays and environmental irritants, and use a humidifier at home or work to add moisture to the air.
In conclusion, while dry eye is unlikely to cause blindness, it’s crucial to manage the condition to prevent complications that could affect your vision. With proper care and treatment, you can keep your eyes healthy and comfortable. If you have any concerns about dry eyes or need advice on managing the condition, contact us at EyeQ Optical. Our dry eye specialist in Spokane Valley has extensive experience in diagnosing dry eye and recommending treatment to help manage or prevent the symptoms.