Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when the moisture on the surface of the eye evaporates, and it is greatly affected by the seasons. As the outdoor weather gets colder and the use of heating devices indoors becomes more frequent, our eyes tend to dry out more. This can lead to foreign body sensation, burning sensation, and eye irritation. If dry eye syndrome is not treated early and is left unattended, secondary eye diseases can occur, so continuous management is necessary.
One way to prevent dry eye syndrome
Applying eye drops is one of the prevention and treatment methods for dry eye syndrome. It temporarily replenishes tears to alleviate dry symptoms and keeps the eyes moist. However, as there are various types of eye drops, it is essential to get a prescription for the proper eye drops according to the state of your eyes.
Various types of eye drops
Eye drops are divided into eye drops, ointments, and gel types, and the most commonly used type is eye drops. The immediate effect is a benefit, but the downside is that it does not last long. On the other hand, ointments and gels may not feel as comfortable, but they have the advantage of lasting longer. Additionally, eye drops vary depending on the ingredients and formulation they contain. Single-use eye drops without preservatives may not be helpful if the dryness is severe. In such cases, eye drops containing lubricants may be beneficial.
Which age group is most vulnerable?
All age groups have a high risk of developing dry eye syndrome, but particularly women in their 50s are among the most vulnerable. As aging progresses and the oil layer decreases, the onset of menopause can reduce the moisture layer of tears, making you more susceptible to dry eye syndrome. This is because the female hormone estrogen, which is involved in the secretion of water from the tear glands, becomes deficient after menopause. This is also why dry eye syndrome due to lack of moisture is common in people in their 20s and 30s, while dry eye syndrome due to oil abnormalities is common in those in their 40s and 50s.
Discard the first one or two drops
Single-use eye drops are designed to be opened by twisting the cap. If you apply the eye drops immediately after opening the cap, microscopic plastic particles can enter the eye, so discard the first one or two drops. Microscopic container fragments have been found when observing the first one or two drops of single-use eye drops under an optical microscope. These substances can contaminate the medicine or damage the eye.
When applying artificial tears
Reason for feeling pain
The reason you may feel pain when applying eye drops is that the components and concentration vary considerably, resulting in different sensations of use. Therefore, if you feel pain when applying the drops, it may be helpful to switch to another product, and ointments can protect the tear film without irritation better than eye drops.
Do not use more than 6 times a day
It’s wrong to overuse eye drops just because your eyes are dry. Even if it’s a single-use eye drop without preservatives, using it more than 6 times a day can dilute the enzymes and components in the tears, damage the eye’s surface, and worsen dryness.
If you’re wearing lenses?
If you are a contact lens wearer, remove your lenses before applying eye drops. This is because the preservative components can be absorbed into the lens and cause corneal damage. Especially for soft lenses, the contact area between the eye and the lens is vast, so there is a high risk of the eye and lens adhering, making it dangerous.
How to properly apply eye drops
When using single-use eye drops, you should wash your hands clean with soap and be careful not to touch the end of the container when opening the cap. Also, when applying the drops, be careful not to let the container touch the eye, as it can cause injuries to the conjunctiva or cornea and contaminate the eye or medicine. When applying the drops, point your eyes upwards, gently pull down your lower eyelid with your hand, and drop the medicine onto the less sensitive white or red flesh part.
If there’s no improvement even after using eye drops
Go to the hospital
If there is no improvement even after using eye drops for 1-2 weeks, you should get an ophthalmic examination. The eye’s surface can become dry due to a lack of oil or abnormalities on the corneal surface. Depending on the cause, you should get a prescription for the proper eye drops, and if your eyes lack oil, ointment can be helpful. Ointments are solid, so they can help prevent the evaporation of tears or oil.
To overcome dry eye syndrome
Improve habits
While hospital treatment is essential for dry eye syndrome, prevention and improving lifestyle habits should come first. Maintaining appropriate humidity and water intake can help improve symptoms, and if you read a lot or do a lot of computer work, the number of eye blinks can decrease, leading to dry eye syndrome. You should consciously blink your eyes and take breaks to rest your eyes during work.
By. Jeon Shin Young
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