4 Signs You Should Book an Eye Test to Check for Dry Eye Syndrome
Most people assume they only need to book an eye test when they feel the quality of their vision has deteriorated, but that isn't the case. There are other reasons to arrange an eye test — for example, you may need to be checked for dry eye syndrome.
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes are no longer producing tears as they normally would. Tears are important since they keep your eye moisturised, clear debris and protect against infections. An optometrist will be able to check for dry eyes using Schirmer's test. This involves placing special filter paper inside the lower lid of the eye, then removing it to check for moisture content.
If you do have dry eye syndrome, your optometrist will be able to offer treatment options to help with the issue. Here are just four signs you should arrange a test.
1. Discomfort or Burning Sensation
When tears are no longer able to keep your eyes properly moisturized, you may start to experience discomfort. Your eyes may feel itchy and uncomfortable, and it's common to experience a burning that only improves after blinking several times. In many cases, it can seem as if there is something in your eye that you cannot get rid of. When this happens, your eyes will often appear red and sore.
2. Watering Eyes
Despite dry eyes being caused by a lack of tears, watery eyes are one of the most common signs that something is wrong. When your eyes become dry and irritated, it can stimulate a temporary overproduction in tear production. This often turns into a vicious cycle as the natural tear system is overwhelmed, so you may go from having dry eyes to suddenly having watery eyes.
3. Temporary Blurred Vision
Having dry eyes won't always impact your vision, at least not until the condition has been allowed to develop. However, you may find yourself experiencing frequent short periods of blurred vision. If this is caused by dry eye syndrome, blurring will tend to improve as you blink.
4. Eye Fatigue
When your eyes are no longer being properly lubricated by a healthy production of tears, they are going to have to work harder. As such, you may start to find your eyes feeling heavy or tired, especially when you need to read or work at the computer. If this starts to happen even when you're well-rested, dry eye syndrome could be to blame.
For more information about health fund eye tests, contact a local professional.