|
Anhydrosis, or dry eye, is a condition caused by a shortage of tear production by the tear glands in the eyelid. Signs of dry eye are stinging, burning, scratchiness, the presence of a stringy mucus, and/or excess irritation from smoke or other irritants.
While dry eye is definitely age related, it may also be caused by many prescription and nonprescription medications including antihistamines, beta-blockers, decongestants, diuretics, oral contraceptives, sleeping medications, tranquilizers, and tricyclic antidepressants. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that a medication is causing dry eyes.
Dry eye may not sound like a serious problem. However, if inadequately treated, chronic dryness may lead to corneal damage.
Dry eyes can usually be treated very successfully. Ordincary tear-replacement drops can control mild problems. More severe problems are treated with special tear-sparing devices, such as moisture-chamber glasses, or dry-eye contact lenses, which ease discomfort by keeping the lid from rubbing against the eye.
|
