Autoimmune Diseases and Dry Eyes

If you’re suffering from dry eye symptoms near Londonderry, you may want to visit an eye doctor that specializes in dry eye treatment. Dry eye syndrome can be caused by many things, including age, gender, ethnicity, hormone levels, certain medications, environment and lifestyle, and certain illnesses and diseases. Autoimmune disorders in particular can cause dryness and irritation in the eyes. Keep reading to learn more about how autoimmune disorders contribute to dry eye syndrome.

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Autoimmune Disorders Necessitate Frequent Visits to Your Eye Doctor

Visiting your eye doctor or ophthalmologist regularly is the best way to maintain the health of your eyes. Healthy adults should begin getting comprehensive eye screening exams beginning at age 40, but if you suffer from an autoimmune disorder, the standards are somewhat different. You should see an eye doctor at least once per year for an eye exam and eye screening. If your eye doctor notes symptoms of vision health issues, you will need a screening every six months.

Autoimmune Disorders Are Linked to Dry Eye Syndrome

There are many autoimmune disorders that can affect eye health. Lupus can cause eye inflammation, blurred vision, light sensitivity, sore eyes, and dry eyes. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause eye inflammation, dry eye syndrome, and a thinning of the cornea. Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic inflammatory disorder that attacks the tear ducts and prevents the glands from producing tears, leading to severe dry eye syndrome.

Autoimmune Disorder Medications Can Cause Dry Eyes

There are medications that are known to cause dry eye syndrome and other vision problems that are regularly prescribed for certain autoimmune disorders. If you are taking certain medications, such as hydroxychloroquine, you will need to undergo frequent eye exams, as it has been proven to affect eyesight. Long-term use of corticosteroids can dry out your skin, eyes, and other mucus membranes, and can also cause cataracts and increase your risk of developing glaucoma.