The condition dry eye syndrome, also referred to as dry eye disease or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. You'll find out its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention here.
Causes
Dry eye syndrome can be caused by various factors, including:
-
Dry eyes are caused by a decrease in tear production with age.
-
Factors contributing to tears evaporating include smoke, wind, dry air, and air conditioning.
-
Tear production can be affected by autoimmune diseases, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and hormonal changes.
-
Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and hormone replacement therapy can cause dry eyes as a side effect.
-
Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) and meibomian gland dysfunction can cause decreased tear production.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dry eye syndrome may include:
-
The feeling of dryness, grittiness, or itchiness in the eyes.
-
Eye redness and irritation.
-
Reading or using digital screens for long periods of time can cause blurry vision.
-
Windy or smoky environments can cause discomfort or a burning sensation in the eyes.
-
Some individuals may experience excessive tearing as their eyes compensate for dryness.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing dry eye syndrome typically involves:
-
Healthcare providers will ask about symptoms and their duration.
-
Performing an eye examination, including evaluating tear production and quality, may be necessary.
-
Assessment of tear film stability and quantity may be accomplished with specialized tests, such as tear breakup time (TBUT) and Schirmer's test.
-
Identification and treatment of any underlying medical conditions or medications that may contribute to dry eyes.
Treatment
Dry eye syndrome can be treated by alleviating symptoms and improving tear production. Common treatments include:
-
Dryness and discomfort can be alleviated with over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye gels.
-
To reduce inflammation and increase tear production, prescription eye drops such as cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) may be prescribed.
-
A humidifier can help maintain moisture in the eyes by avoiding environmental triggers, such as smoke and dry air.
-
Warm compresses and gentle eyelid cleaning can improve the function of meibomian glands and prevent blockages.
Prevention
Preventing dry eye syndrome involves:
-
Getting regular eye exams can help detect dry eye symptoms early and prevent complications.
-
Protective eyewear, such as wraparound sunglasses, can protect the eyes from wind, dust, and other environmental irritants.
-
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to maintain adequate tear production.
-
When reading or using digital screens, take regular breaks to prevent eye strain and tear evaporation.
It is important to know that dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can cause discomfort and affect vision. Managing this condition and maintaining eye health requires understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms, seeking timely diagnosis and treatment, and implementing preventive measures.
