Dry Eye Treatment

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes are unable to produce an adequate amount of tears or when the tears produced are of poor quality. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the eye’s surface and ensuring clear vision. Factors such as aging, environmental conditions, medications, and underlying health issues can contribute to the development of dry eye. Common symptoms include a gritty sensation, burning, and blurred vision. Treatment aims to improve tear production, enhance tear quality, and alleviate discomfort.

Symptoms and Treatment:

Symptoms of dry eye include:

• Grittiness or irritation in the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Excessive tearing (as the eyes attempt to compensate)

Treatment options range from artificial tears for lubrication to medications that stimulate tear production. Lifestyle adjustments like using humidifiers and protecting eyes from wind and smoke can also help manage symptoms.

In severe cases, surgical interventions may be considered to improve tear drainage or conserve natural tears.

Factors Contributing to Dry Eye

Dry Eye Can be Influenced by Various Factors

Dry eye syndrome can stem from a variety of factors that affect tear production and eye lubrication. Aging is a significant contributor, as natural changes in tear gland function make dry eyes more common among individuals over the age of 65. Women are also more susceptible due to hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives, and menopause.

Medications play a role as well, with certain drugs such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants known to decrease tear production. Medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can exacerbate dry eye symptoms, as can inflammatory conditions of the eyelids or eye surfaces.

Environmental factors such as exposure to smoke, wind, or dry climates can increase tear evaporation and contribute to dry eye discomfort. Additionally, prolonged periods spent staring at digital screens without blinking enough can lead to eye dryness. Long-term use of contact lenses and some corrective eye surgeries, like LASIK, may also impact tear production and exacerbate dry eye symptoms.