Ocular Surface Disease (OSD)
Ocular Surface Disease (OSD) is also known as 'dry eye', is a condition where the cornea, the front surface of the eye, lacks sufficient lubrication from your tears.
OSD can cause ocular discomfort, difficulty wearing contact lenses, and also increases the risk of serious eye damage.
Signs and Symptoms of OSD
OSD causes symptoms including;
- Red eyes
- Dry or gritty eyes
- Eyes water a lot
- Burning sensation in your eyes
- Eyes feeling scratchy, especially upon waking or at the end of the day
- Difficulty maintaining concentration during computer use or reading
Although these symptoms are typically enough for your eye doctor to diagnose the condition, they will want also to measure the quality of your tears.
OSD can cause watery eyes, this occurs because the excessive dryness stimulates the production of the watery production of your eye’s tears.
What Causes OSD?
When the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate rapidly due to insufficient oil in your tears, this can lead to OSD.
OSD can be caused by aging (especially over age 40), medication side effects, gender (women are more prone), and poor eyelid hygiene.
Environmental factors such as dry, dusty, or windy climates can also trigger OSD as can low humidity, air conditioning, and prolonged screen time.
Additionally, certain diseases such as autoimmune diseases and long-term contact lens wear can also trigger this eye condition.
Smoking and incomplete eyelid closure or partial blinking has also been linked to OSD.
Treatment For OSD
OSD is a chronic condition that can be managed to alleviate symptoms such as eye dryness, scratchiness, and burning.
Some of our optometrists specialize in OSD treatment and would love to find the best treatment for you.
Our successful in-office treatments for OSD include;
- Tear Care
- Lipiflow
- IPL
Specific lubricating eye drops called artificial tears or prescription eye drops that stimulate tear production. Your eye doctor may also recommend punctal plugs — a small insert that slows tear drainage from the eye.
If you wear contact lenses, keep in mind that certain eye drops can’t be used while wearing lenses. You should always check in with your eye doctor before using any over-the-counter eye drops.
Wearing sunglasses is essential for protecting your eyes from the sun, wind, and dust, and a humidifier can alleviate the dryness caused by air conditioning or heating.
Warm compresses can also be used to treat OSD. Nutritional supplements, increased water intake, and treating underlying eyelid disease can also help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
