Chronic Dry Eye Disease
If you find yourself using artificial tears often, like when you’re checking
e-mail or going outdoors for a run, it may mean you have a disease called Chronic Dry Eye. Chronic Dry Eye is sometimes called dry eye disease or dry eye syndrome. It is also known by the medical name keratoconjunctivitis sicca (pronounced “carrot-oh-con-junk-tiv-it-is seek-a”). But the important thing to remember is that Chronic Dry Eye is a disease and that there is medical treatment available.
Chronic Dry Eye is a chronic disease that can be caused by advanced age, contact lens wear, certain medications, eye diseases, other medical conditions, or environmental factors.
One type of Chronic Dry Eye is caused by decreased tear production due to inflammation. Without enough tears, the film protecting the eye can break down, creating dry spots on the surface of the eye. That’s why it is so important to see your eye doctor. Fortunately, there are prescription options available.
What Happens When You Have This Type of Chronic Dry Eye Disease?
become inflamed
leading to decreased tear production
Talk to your eye doctor if you have dry eyes…because what you don’t see can hurt you
You can’t see the inflammation that causes Chronic Dry Eye disease. To find out if you have Chronic Dry Eye, you’ll need to talk to your eye doctor and get tested. Watch a video about why you shouldn't wait to talk to your eye doctor. If you do have this disease, you’re not alone—many people suffer from this type of Chronic Dry Eye. Meet other people like you.
(credit to www.restasis.com)