It’s not uncommon to encounter dry eyes and headaches throughout life, and you might be surprised to learn that if they arise concurrently, there could be a connection.
A comprehensive eye examination facilitated by our eye doctors can help identify dry eyes, leading to suitable dry eye therapy treatments that can address all degrees of dryness, from mild to severe cases.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Your eyes rely on tears for lubrication, safeguarding them from foreign material and reducing infection risks. When your eyes fail to generate enough tears or produce poor-quality ones that evaporate too soon, dry eye syndrome is often the result.
Dry eye can exhibit the following symptoms:
- Stinging or burning
- Irritation, or the feeling of sand in the eyes
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Excessive tearing or watery eyes
- Blurred vision
Headache symptoms, like dry eyes, can include head pain and vision-related effects like light sensitivity and eye discomfort.
Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
Several factors can contribute to dry eye syndrome, including those affecting tear production. Age, sex, and conditions causing inflammation are risk factors for developing dry eyes.
Other causes can include:
- Medication use such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medication
- Environmental factors, like smoke, irritants, and dry climates
- Extended usage of contact lenses
- Prolonged exposure to computer screens
- Medical conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid issues
- Obstruction in the meibomian glands, which can cause an imbalance in the eye’s tear film’s oily layer, leading to faster tear evaporation
How Are Dry Eyes & Headaches Linked?
Numerous studies have explored the relationship between dry eyes and headaches. Research implies that patients who have migraine headaches are more likely to have dry eye disease compared to the general population. Other studies suggest that both dry eyes and migraines may originate from inflammation.
Dry eye disease and headaches might have different origins but can also share common causes, such as specific prescription medications, eye structure, and injury or illness. They also share similar symptoms, including light sensitivity, back or neck pain, and discomfort around the eyes.
Dry Eye Treatment
Addressing the common triggers of both dry eye and headaches can bring relief. For instance, prolonged computer use can cause eye strain, dry eyes, neck and shoulder pain, and headaches. Regular breaks and more frequent blinking can help alleviate these symptoms.
Other treatments for dry eye syndrome may include:
- A humidifier to increase air moisture
- Preservative-free artificial tears or eye drops for better lubrication
- Prescription eye drops to enhance tear production and reduce inflammation
- Meibomian gland expression to assist in releasing hardened oil
- Switching to moisture-retaining contact lenses
- Treating root causes
Preventing Dry Eyes
There are proactive steps you can take to ward off or decrease dry eye symptoms, including:
- Wearing sunglasses outdoors to shield your eyes from harsh elements
- Taking vitamin and nutritional supplements, but always consult with your eye doctor first
- Limiting screen time
Wave Goodbye to Dry Eyes
Effective treatments tailored to your specific needs can help relieve discomfort associated with dry eye. Understanding the root cause of your dry eyes is essential, whether it’s meibomian gland dysfunction or an issue with your contact lenses. At Queensway Optometric Centre, we offer a range of solutions to help rejuvenate and soothe your eyes.
Artificial Tears
Artificial tears, or eye drops, are an immediate remedy for dry eyes, providing the moisture your eyes crave. They mimic natural tears, offering instant relief from dryness and irritation. Ideal for occasional dry eye sufferers, they help maintain eye lubrication and comfort throughout the day.
Medicated Eye Drops
For more persistent dry eye conditions, medicated eye drops can be a game-changer. These drops hydrate and address inflammation and other underlying issues contributing to dry eyes. By reducing inflammation, they can help restore the natural tear film and enhance long-term eye health.
LipiFlow
LipiFlow is a treatment that targets meibomian gland dysfunction, a common cause of dry eye. This technology applies gentle heat and pressure to the eyelids, unclogging blocked glands and promoting natural oil flow. This can result in a more stable tear film and provide lasting relief from dryness.
PRN Omega-3s
PRN omega-3 supplements offer a nutritional approach to combating dry eyes. Rich in essential fatty acids, they support gland health and improve tear quality. Regular intake can reduce inflammation and enhance the overall function of the tear film, providing a natural and effective way to soothe dry eyes.
Whether you need immediate relief or long-term solutions, our team is here to guide you to clearer, more comfortable vision.
Dry Eye Relief with Queensway Optometric Centre
Dry eyes and headaches can indeed dampen your quality of life. Reach out to our team at Queensway Optometric Centre to help you find relief from these bothersome conditions.
Contact us or book an appointment to explore our treatment options.
