Dry Eye Dry Eye If your eyes water excessively they may be dry. The eye makes two types of tears. The first type is called a "lubricating tear." They are produced slowly throughout the day and contain water, oil, mucous, nutrient proteins, and antibodies. They help protect the surface of the eye throughout the day. This type of tearing is normal.
The other type of tearing is "reflex" tearing. This is the tear that is produced in an emergency situation such as having something in the eye or cutting onions. These tears do not have much lubricating value. If the eye is not producing enough lubricating tears then you may have dry eyes.
The main cause of dry eye is age. As people get older, glands in the eyelid produce less oil which allows the tears to evaporate more quickly, leaving the eyes too dry. If these glands get clogged they can become infected which will also lead to dry eye.
Symptoms
Excessive tearing
Itchiness and burning
Blurry vision after periods of reading, watching TV or using a computer
Eyes are red and irritated
Mucus discharge
What you can do If you have any of these symptoms contact your ophthalmologist. Most likely the doctor will prescribe artificial tears. There are different types of artificial tears based on the severity of your condition. Your doctor will know which type of artificial tears you need.
The doctor can also perform a small surgery to close some of the drain holes found in the inner cornea. This will help the existing tears last longer.
