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Is Your Job Placing You at a Higher Risk For Dry Eye?

Higher Risk For Dry Eye 640Dry eye symptoms such as red, watery, stinging eyes can make it more difficult for you to do your job.  Could your work environment actually be causing or exacerbating your symptoms?  Where you work can heighten your risk of developing dry, irritated eyes. 

Which Work Environments Increase Your Risk of Developing Dry Eye Symptoms?

Offices

Several factors appear to contribute to dry eyes. In fact, a survey of American and European office employees found that a 1 out of every 3 people who work in an office suffer from dry eye symptoms. 

Research has shown that prolonged physical inactivity and staring at computer monitors increases a person’s susceptibility to developing dry eye syndrome. 

We blink much less frequently when we work on computer.  That creates a problem because blinking is essential for lubricating the eyes and keeping the protective tear film that covers the eye intact. If you find your eyes becoming irritated or uncomfortable at work, try blinking more, especially while using the computer and reading.  

The humidity level of the air in the office also plays a role. Air conditioning and heating can cause the air to become dry and that can cause your tears to evaporate faster.  Having less tears is a leading cause of dry eye symptoms. If you find that your work environment is too dry, try using a humidifier to add some moisture back into the air. 

The Great Outdoors

Certain outdoor jobs can expose the eyes to eye-drying elements like wind, debris, and direct sunlight. Wind and heat can cause the eye’s tear film to prematurely evaporate, leaving the eye unprotected and susceptible to dryness. 

Other factors that contribute to dry eye syndrome include pollution and exposure to harmful UV rays. Outdoor workers such as construction workers, farmers, and lifeguards should always use protective eye wear while working.

How We Can Help

Dry eye symptoms can range from mildly bothersome to severely annoying.  A comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Roth or Dr. Tiomno will determine the underlying cause of your symptoms so the most effective treatment can be offered. 

Relief from dry eye symptoms extends far beyond the options available at the drugstore. If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms of any degree, contact Family Eye Care to discover how you can achieve long-lasting relief. We look forward to hearing from you. 

 

Our office serves patients from Old Bridge, Aberdeen, East Brunswick, Manalapan, Matawan, Marlboro, Monroe, Parlin. Sayreville, South Amboy, South River, Spotswood, Lawrence Harbor, Cliffwood Beach, and throughout New Jersey.

 

Old Bridge, East Brunswick, Woodbridge, Edison, and throughout New Jersey. 


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