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(ARA) - As winter makes its slow crawl to a close and spring approaches, many of us look forward to longer days and warmer temperatures. Seasonal changes also can mean the onset of Dry Eye or an increase in symptoms of the condition. It has been estimated that 10 to 20 percent of the U.S. population suffers from Dry Eye. Symptoms of the condition include dry, tired eyes; blurriness; itchiness or scratchiness; feelings of grittiness; burning, stinging or foreign body sensation in the eye; and sensitivity to light.
Dry Eye symptoms can increase during seasonal changes when use of artificial heating and cooling systems indoors reduce precipitation levels. Extreme cold, heat and wind can zap moisture from eyes, leaving them dry and irritated. So can recycled air in airplanes, offices and gyms.
Aging, hormonal changes, certain types of medications, including oral contraceptives and antihistamines, extended contact lens use, smoke, pollution and concentrated near work such as staring at a computer screen for extended periods of time, can also contribute to Dry Eye.
Dry Eye occurs when there is inadequate wetting and lubrication of the eye. Blinking is the body’s natural response to this condition and helps to spread moisture in the form of tears over the surface of the eye. The average person blinks eight times per minute. That number decreases dramatically - by nearly half - when we spend extended periods of time reading, writing, using a computer or even driving.
Dry Eye can be managed and rarely causes serious complications, but should always be treated. “Artificial tears like those found in Systane Lubricant Eye Drops are available without a prescription and are clinically proven to reduce both signs and symptoms of Dry Eye,” said Shachar Tauber, MD, director of Ophthalmic Research, Cornea and Refractive Surgery at St. John’s Clinic Eye Specialists in Springfield, Mo.
Avoid products designed to remove redness, however, as some medical professionals believe these only mask symptoms and can actually cause eyes to become dryer.
Remember your eyes this season whether you live, work and play in a cold or warm environment, and protect them from dryness in the same way you take care to moisturize your skin, condition your hair and apply balm to your lips.
Following are tips from Alcon, Inc., the maker of Systane Lubricant Eye Drops, to help you preserve your eye health and alleviate the discomfort of Dry Eye:
Courtesy of ARA Content
