What is xerophthalmia?
xerophthalmia is a general medical term for a dry eye. Reduced moisture and tears production is a very common disease that can be caused by eye injury, prescription drugs, age -related disorders and certain autoimmune conditions. Xerophthalmia is usually accompanied by unpleasant symptoms of burning, itching and sensitivity of light. Some people experience blurred vision or lose their eyes unless they seek medical care. The treatment of xeroftalmia depends on the basic cause, but most people are able to find relief with eye drops or local or oral prescription drugs.
A person who has an acute case of xeroftalmia that appears in a few hours could suffer burns, poke or scratches. While injuries usually cause increased tears immediately after the incident, it can eventually exhaust the production of tears and leave the eye dry, red and irritated. Dryness in one or both eyes can also be a side effect of antihistamines, contraceptives or severalIk other prescription medicines. In older adults, the common symptoms of acute dry eye are common, as tears are gradually becoming less efficient in the delivery of eyes adequate moisture.
The common cause of chronic xeroftalmia in many parts of the world is the lack of vitamin A. Diet vitamin A is absorbed by the body and is used to strengthen bones and skin, maintain teeth and regenerate pigments in retina. People who do not enjoy enough vitamin A are at risk of many health problems, including xeroftalmia and quickly worsening of vision problems.
Autoimmune disorder called Sjogren's syndrome may also affect tears production. The condition occurs when the immune system begins to attack the salivary glands, tears and mucosal membranes in the body. Among other things, people experience a chronic, painful dry eye and dry mouth.
mild or occasional xerophthalmia can usually be treated at home with over -the -counter artificial SLzami. However, if problems become chronic and painful, one should plan an appointment with an ophthalmologist to receive an accurate diagnosis and learn about different treatment options. Physical test and analysis of laboratory tears and blood can help doctors to determine the basic cause of dry eyes. Medicated eye drops, antibiotics and current ointments are commonly prescribed to facilitate chronic symptoms and repair damage to tear channels.
If xerophthalmia continues to deteriorate despite medical care, the eye physician may consider a clinical procedure called punctual occlusion. He puts a small piece of silicone into the corner of the eye to combine tears. This procedure prevents the piping from eyes from eye to cavities, which increases the amount of tears available. Invasive surgery is rarely performed to permanently close the pipeline. Punctal occlusions and surgery have a superfluous rate of success, and most people are able to regain eye vision and comfort within a few weeks.