Does dry eye cause pain? For many seniors, the answer is yes. According to The Salisbury Eye Study, up to 14.6 % of adults over age 65 report frequent dry eye symptoms.
Today, we’re taking a closer look at the nature of dry eye discomfort in older adults in Newton, NC, a small, welcoming city in the foothills of western North Carolina known for its community charm and historic downtown.
We’ll cover common symptoms, underlying causes, and more!
Common Causes of Dry Eye in Seniors
Dry eye often has more than one cause. There are three common reasons dry eye becomes more likely with age:
- Tear quality may decrease
- Eyelid problems may develop
- Medications and health conditions can interfere with moisture
Tear Quality May Decrease
As people get older, their tears may not be as balanced or effective. Tears need a mix of water, oil, and mucus to protect and clean the eyes.
When that mix changes, the tears dry up too quickly. This leads to scratchy, red, or irritated eyes.
Eyelid Problems May Develop
The eyelids help spread tears and keep the surface of the eye covered. With age, the muscles around the eyes may weaken.
Some seniors may not blink as often or may sleep with their eyes partly open. This leaves parts of the eye exposed and more likely to dry out.
Medications and Health Conditions Can Interfere with Moisture
Many common medicines cause dry eye. These include drugs for high blood pressure, allergies, sleep problems, or depression.
Health issues like diabetes or arthritis may also make the eyes dry. Some treatments, such as radiation or hormone therapy, can have the same effect.
Symptoms: Does Dry Eye Cause Pain?
Many seniors wonder if dry eyes can lead to real pain. The answer is yes. Dry eye often causes more than just mild discomfort.
When the surface of the eye doesn’t stay moist, it can feel irritated, sore, or even sharp in some cases. It can affect daily life and make it harder to enjoy common tasks like reading or spending time outside.
The pain from dry eye can show up in different ways. Some people feel a burning or stinging feeling that doesn’t go away. Others describe it as a constant ache or pressure behind the eyes.
In more severe cases, the pain may feel sharp, like a sudden poke or scratch. The surface of the eye can also become red, sensitive to light, or feel like something is stuck in it.
For seniors, this type of eye discomfort can add to stress or fatigue. Pain in the eyes may even affect sleep or mood over time.
Some people may rub their eyes more often, which can make the problem worse.
Managing Dry Eyes: Treatment and Relief Options
Managing dry eyes starts with finding what works for your needs. There are three common ways to treat dry eyes and ease symptoms:
- Over-the-counter and prescription treatments
- At-home care and changes to daily habits
- Help from an eye care provider when symptoms don’t improve
Over-the-Counter and Prescription Treatments
Artificial tears are often the first step. These drops help moisten the eyes and can be used throughout the day. Some people may need thicker gel drops or ointments at night.
If those don’t help enough, a doctor may suggest prescription drops. These help reduce swelling on the surface of the eye and help the body make more natural tears.
At-Home Care and Changes to Daily Habits
Simple changes at home can make a big difference. Using a humidifier adds moisture to the air and helps keep eyes from drying out.
Warm compresses help loosen any blocked oil glands in the eyelids. Washing the eyelids with a gentle cleanser can keep the area clean and reduce irritation. Sunglasses or wraparound glasses can block wind and protect the eyes outdoors.
Help From an Eye Care Provider When Symptoms Don’t Improve
Some cases of dry eye may need more support. An eye doctor might place small plugs in the tear ducts to keep more moisture on the eye’s surface. In some cases, changing medications or treating related conditions like allergies or arthritis can help too.
Senior Wellness Support: Lifestyle Tips for Preventing Dry Eye Discomfort
Small changes in daily habits can help reduce dry eye symptoms. For many seniors, dry eye comes and goes based on how much strain the eyes feel, how dry the air is, or what kind of light they’re exposed to.
There are three helpful ways to support better eye health:
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet
- Reduce strain from screens or close-up work
- Protect eyes from dry air and outdoor elements
Stay Hydrated and Eat a Healthy Diet
Drinking enough water each day helps keep the whole body working better, including the eyes. Some foods, like those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, may support tear production.
Fish, flaxseed, and walnuts are simple examples. A well-balanced diet helps with more than just eye health, but it can also support managing dry eyes.
Reduce Strain from Screens or Close-Up Work
Many seniors enjoy reading or watching TV, but these activities often reduce blinking. Less blinking leads to faster dryness.
Taking regular breaks and looking away from the screen or book every 20 minutes can help. Keeping screens just below eye level may also help reduce strain.
Protect Eyes from Dry Air and Outdoor Elements
Using a humidifier at home helps keep moisture in the air, which supports tear balance. Fans and vents should not blow directly toward the face. When going outside, sunglasses or wraparound glasses can protect from wind, dust, or bright light, which often triggers dry eye symptoms.
Eye Discomfort in Seniors: Aging and Vision Care
Does dry eye cause pain? For many seniors, the answer is yes. It can lead to burning, itching, and lasting discomfort that affects daily life.
At TerraBella Newton, we offer the support and comfort our residents deserve. Our Assisted Living program provides help when needed and independence when it’s not. For those with memory loss, our award-winning SHINE® Memory Care program offers trusted, science-based care. Both options include amenities such as our jacuzzi spa and community garden.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your loved one’s care.
