We now know more about how to diagnose and treat dry eye disease than ever before. That’s good news, because the world we live in today is causing more dry eye sufferers than ever. What’s more, Dry Eye Institutes of America™ doctors have a wealth of knowledge and the most advanced dry eye technologies and treatments available.
Whether you live in Dallas/Fort Worth or anywhere in the U.S., the environment, age, health, work, computer usage and other current issues can cause dry eye symptoms. Our doctors carefully take these into account to accurately evaluate your condition.
Our Environment Today
When you consider pollutants, air quality alone can trigger dry eye symptoms. Sensitivity to smoke and wind (a common cause) can further trigger symptoms. Major metro areas like Dallas/Fort Worth continue to take steps to reduce pollutants. But it’s no secret that air quality today isn’t what it used to be for the simple fact that more people are using more resources more often.
Age and Health of our Current Population
The U.S. Census Bureau recently projects that by 2029 baby boomers 65 years or older will make up more than 20% of the U.S. population. As we get older we are more susceptible to dry eyes, which is especially common in menopausal women. Today, people of all ages are taking more prescription and over-the-counter medications – another common cause 0f dry eyes.
How We Currently Communicate and Work
We spend a lot of time looking at computers and smartphones, a major contributor to dry eye symptoms. We can’t live without our smartphones. We spend hours online socially and personally; we’re constantly texting, emailing, and viewing the latest YouTube sensation. And if we’re not using them for personal reasons, we’re using them for work. This extended periods of reading, which is another major contributor to dry eyes. If you’re job requires a lot of driving, this can also trigger symptoms.
By the Numbers
The 2007 DEWS* Report, the most definitive dry eye study to date, estimated that 3.2 million women and 1.6 million men 50 or older suffer from moderate to severe dry eyes. The report also noted that “tens of millions more” have less severe symptoms. From our own experiences, Dry Eye Institutes of America™ doctors report seeing an increase of patients with dry eye symptoms in just a few short years.
If you suspect you have dry eyes, contact Dry Eye Institutes of America™ at 817-488-3490. Our main office is conveniently located in Grapevine, with affiliated Dallas/Fort Worth specialists near you.