Dry Eye and Contact Lenses
You've been working on your computer for long hours. You just can't seem to concentrate because your eyes seem as dry as a desert. Sometimes, they even feel scratchy and uncomfortable, like you have a particle of dirt lodged in your eye that you just can't seem to get rid of, no matter how much you rinse or rub your eyes. Does this sound familiar? You may be suffering the symptoms of dry eye syndrome, a very common condition that many adults experience. Optometrists quite commonly treat patients for the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome is the chronic lack of sufficient moisture and lubrication in the eye, which causes subtle yet constant irritation. It could even result in ocular inflammation of the front tissues of the eye in more serious cases. What may be causing your dry eye syndrome?
AgeFirst and foremost, the older you get, the more likely it is for your eyes to be prone to “dryness”, due to the normal aging process of your body. This is especially common for women during menopause, when the body starts to produce less oil – some 60% less at the age of 65 than at the age of 18 – and this makes lubricating tears evaporate more rapidly than they used to. As a result, the cornea is left dehydrated in many areas, and the eyes feel dry. 
Climatic conditionsA number of factors can cause dry eye syndrome including: dry, hot or windy weather, high altitudes, air conditioning, heating, dust, and cigarette smoke. When working long hours on the computer, the eye is constantly focused on the screen and neglects to blink enough to lubricate itself, causing an uncomfortable dryness. In some cases, long term contact lens usage can be one cause of dry eye syndrome. Symptoms and signsSome of the obvious signs of dry eye syndrome include persistent dryness, scratching or burning in the eyes. You might also experience the feeling of having a foreign particle lodged in your eye. Oddly, watery eyes can also be a sign of dry eye syndrome. This is because the eye works to overcome excessive dryness by over stimulating the production of the watery component of your tears. Some people may also experience redness of the eyes, and an increase in discomfort after periods of activity which require the eyes to focus, like watching television, reading and working on the computer. 
TreatmentIn most cases, the dryness and itching that accompanies dry eye syndrome can be subdued. Rewetting drops may be prescribed by your optometrist to alleviate that dreaded dry and scratchy feeling. Not all eye drops are effective against dry eye syndrome – many off the shelf varieties simply soothe the redness of the eyes rather than treat the cause of the redness – be it environmental irritation or some other cause. If you wear contact lenses, make sure you pick the type of eye drops that can be used with contact lenses. Rewetting drops, specially formulated for contact lens wearers, are usually sufficient for temporary relief against mild cases of dry eyes. Note that many kinds of eye drops, especially artificial tears, cannot be used while you are still wearing your lenses. Quick remediesRemove your contact lensesIf you wear contact lenses for long periods, give your eyes a rest. If you have dry eye syndrome, your contact lenses could feel uncomfortable in your eyes. The constant rubbing of the lenses against the conjunctiva could aggravate the condition. Rest your eyesWhen reading, watching television or working at the computer, stop periodically – about once every 20 minutes – to give your eyes a break and remember to blink! Protect your eyesIf you suspect your dry eye syndrome is being caused by the environment – i.e. you work or live in a particularly dry city – then take steps to reduce your exposure to these elements. Proper sunglasses, with adequate UV protection lenses and protective wraparound frames, not only shield your eyes from the sun, but also give an added layer of protection against wind, dirt and dust particles in the air. At home, use an air cleaner to filter out dust and mould particles in the air. If your home is air-conditioned or heated, get a humidifier to add moisture. Pick the right eye dropsRewetting drops can offer temporary relief, however pick the thicker formulations as these remain in the eyes longer therefore need less frequent application. Use only the preservative–free, commercially prepared formulations. Use a washcloth compressSoak a washcloth with warm water, squeeze out the excess moisture and place it over your closed eyelids for 10 minutes several times a day. This helps to unclog the oil glands in the eyelids to free the flow of oil in your eyes, thus keeping them lubricated naturally. Avoid direct air-conditioningSit away from blasting air vents or turn the vents away from you. Heating or air-conditioning can dry out your eyes quickly. Tips to relieve dry eye syndrome
If symptoms persist, see your optometrist.
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