According to the Optometrist Network, over 58% of people experience dry eyes. Unfortunately, this number rises dramatically as you age.
If you're a senior in Greeley, CO, you may have noticed more than just scratchy, irritated eyes. Sometimes, there's a deep, nagging pain behind the eye that just won't stop. So, can dry eyes cause pain behind the eye?
Recognizing how dry eyes relate to eye pain can help you make proactive steps to achieve daily comfort. Below is a guide on what you need to know about dry eyes in seniors.
You may be wondering: "Can dry eyes cause pain behind the eye?" The answer is yes -- dry eyes can indeed cause pain behind the eye.
Aging vision naturally changes how your eyes function. As you get older, your tear production decreases, and the quality of your tears changes.
The trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensation in your face and eyes. When your eyes are chronically dry, the surface nerves can become irritated. This irritation can send pain signals through the trigeminal nerve, which sometimes feels like pain coming from deep behind your eyes.
This process is called neuropathic eye pain. The pain may be dull, aching, or sharp, and it can affect your daily comfort and senior activities.
Dry eye syndrome isn't just about surface irritation. The chronic lack of proper lubrication can trigger pain in the eye. Here is why:
Dry eye pain behind the eye stems from these factors, turning surface dryness into a deeper ache. Senior eye care can help you reduce dry eye symptoms and reduce this pain.
Dry eye symptoms can sneak up on you. Here's what to watch for:
Seniors living in Greeley, CO -- with its elevation of 4,658 feet above sea level -- are more likely to experience pronounced dry eye symptoms. According to a case study from Clinical Ophthalmology, higher altitudes have lower humidity, which quickens tear evaporation and increases the risk of dry eye disease. If you notice these symptoms, especially pain behind the eye, it's time to pay attention.
Research from the American Optometric Association (AOA) shows that dry eye disease affects about 5 million Americans aged 50 and older. Several factors contribute to increased risk as you age:
As you age, your body undergoes numerous changes. For women, hormonal fluctuations during and after menopause can have a big impact on their eyes. Estrogen and androgen levels help regulate the glands that produce your tears.
When these hormone levels drop, your eyes may not get the moisture they need, making you more prone to dry eye symptoms. If you notice your eyes feeling irritated more often after menopause, hormonal changes can be a key factor.
Seniors take a lot of medications to manage their health conditions. Unfortunately, many medications can reduce your body's ability to produce tears. These include:
If you're taking more than one of these medications, the risk of developing dry eyes increases even more. Always inform your healthcare provider if you're experiencing dry eye pain and other symptoms. They may be able to adjust your medication regimen.
Living in Greeley, CO, has its environmental challenges for your eyes. The city's high altitude means the air holds less moisture and lower humidity levels -- especially during winter. This can increase tear evaporation. Frequent winds and the use of indoor heating systems can also dry out your eyes.
Managing dry eyes and the associated pain behind your eyes involves a holistic approach. Here are some senior eye care tips you can adopt:
Creating the right environment is your first step to achieving eye comfort. If you are in senior living in Greeley, CO, you should use humidifiers in your space during the dry winter months.
You also need to position yourself away from direct air vents. The air can make your dry eyes worse. When out for activities, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and UV exposure.
Simple treatments can offer dry eye relief. Preservative-free artificial tears are ideal. You can use them as often as needed without irritation.
For more severe cases, you may need prescription treatments. Your eye care provider may recommend cyclosporine drops to help your eyes make more natural tears. Additionally, they may use punctal plugs to block your tear ducts, keeping moisture in your eyes longer.
Small lifestyle changes in your daily routine make a big difference. Here are some tips:
While these adjustments may seem small, they form a powerful daily routine that actively fights dryness and reduces eye strain. Making these habits supports healthier senior living.
So, can dry eyes cause pain behind the eye? Understanding this allows you to take control of your eye health. If you or your loved one is dealing with dry eyes or other age-related concerns, consider the comprehensive support available at The Lodge at Greeley.
Our award-winning Vibrant Life® program includes wellness education and health management resources that help residents maintain optimal eye health and well-being. We provide personalized senior care, ensuring you never have to navigate health challenges alone.
Get in touch to schedule a tour of our senior living community.