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Do your eyes burn? Do you suffer from intermittent blurriness when you read or watch TV? Do your eyes water excessively when you are in breezy or other outdoor environments? If you answer yes to any or all of these questions, it is likely that you are suffering from Ocular Surface Disease.
Ocular surface Disease is a term used to describe the different pathologies that can negatively affect the physiology, visual clarity, and comfort of the front surface of the eye. Some of the disorders responsible for making up ocular surface disease include blepharitis, meibomitis, and dry eye syndrome.
Dry Eye is one of the most common ocular problems. The estimated number of people affected ranges from 10-14 million in the United States. It most commonly affects people over the age of 40. It affects women slightly more than men.
Many environmental and systemic factors can influence ocular surface disease. Ocular surface disease can be influenced by factors such as current medications, rheumatoid arthritis, rosacea, menopause, thyroid disease, and Sjogren’s syndrome. Environmental influences such as increased tear evaporation due to decreased blink rate, overhead ceiling fans, wind current from heating or A/C, windy weather conditions, or smoke can have a profoundly negative effect on the comfort level of patients with ocular surface disease.
Ocular surface disease is a serious problem and many patients are frustrated by its chronic nature. Mild forms of this disease can be very irritating. Moderate to severe progression of this disease can have a huge negative impact on your overall quality of life and vision. Fortunately there are many new pharmacologic and therapeutic options for the ocular surface disease patient. If you have any or all of the symptoms related to ocular surface disease it is recommended that you get an evaluation from an eye care professional.
