Autoimmune diseases can lead to dry eyes, a common and often uncomfortable condition. Eye Care Hawaii in Hilo provides comprehensive care for patients suffering from dry eye syndrome.
Autoimmune diseases occur when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. There are over 80 types of autoimmune disorders, and one common symptom is dry eye syndrome (DES).
At Eye Care Hawaii, we provide thorough diagnosis and treatment for dry eye caused by autoimmune diseases and other factors. Our clinic in Hilo is dedicated to helping relieve discomfort and improve your eye health.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome happens when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to insufficient lubrication. This causes dryness, redness, itching, and irritation.
While environmental factors—such as wind exposure, excessive screen time, or certain types of makeup—can contribute to dry eye, it can also result from underlying conditions like autoimmune diseases. Left untreated, dry eye can lead to chronic inflammation, corneal ulcers, or even permanent vision loss in severe cases.
How Do Autoimmune Diseases Cause Dry Eyes?
Autoimmune diseases can affect the function of the tear glands by causing the immune system to attack them. Treating the autoimmune disease can sometimes help reduce dry eye symptoms, but some medications prescribed for these conditions, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, may worsen dry eye.
Common Autoimmune Diseases That Cause Dry Eye
Here are some autoimmune diseases commonly linked to dry eye syndrome:
- Sjogren's Syndrome: This condition affects the tear and salivary glands, leading to chronically dry eyes and mouth.
- Lupus: This systemic disease impacts various organs, including the eyes, where it causes dry eye and other ocular complications.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Known for joint inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis can also reduce tear production by affecting the glands around the eyes.
- Thyroid Eye Disease: Immune system activity can inflame the tissues around the eyes, resulting in dry eye.
- Type 1 Diabetes: High blood sugar can interfere with the production of tears, and damage to the eye's nerves can prevent the proper signal to produce tears.
If you're experiencing dry eyes and have an autoimmune condition, it's important to discuss this with your eye doctor to ensure you receive appropriate care.
Dry Eye Treatment in Hilo
At Eye Care Hawaii, we offer customized dry eye treatments tailored to your specific needs. If you're suffering from dry eye syndrome, contact us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and start feeling relief.