Dry Eye Syndrome (also known as dry eye disease or keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to keep the eyes properly lubricated. This leads to discomfort and potential damage to the surface of the eyes.
Causes:
Dry eye syndrome can be caused by several factors, including:
- Decreased Tear Production: As people age, tear production often decreases. Certain medical conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disorders, can also contribute.
- Increased Tear Evaporation: Environmental factors such as wind, dry air, or prolonged screen time can cause tears to evaporate faster than they are produced.
- Medications: Some medications, like antihistamines, decongestants, and beta-blockers, can reduce tear production.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, especially during menopause, can affect tear production.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), Sjögren’s syndrome, or vitamin A deficiency can cause dry eyes.
- Eye Surgery: LASIK surgery or other eye surgeries can temporarily reduce tear production.
Symptoms:
Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:
- Stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
- Redness or irritation in the eyes
- Blurred vision that improves with blinking
- A feeling of having something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
- Sensitivity to light
- Excessive tearing as the body tries to compensate for the dryness
- Eye fatigue or discomfort, especially after prolonged reading or screen time
Treatment:
Treatment options aim to relieve symptoms and improve tear production or quality. Common treatments include:
- Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help to moisten the eyes and relieve dryness.
- Prescription Medications:
- Cyclosporine A (Restasis): Helps increase tear production.
- Lifitegrast (Xiidra): Reduces inflammation associated with dry eyes.
- Punctal Plugs: Small devices inserted into tear ducts to reduce tear drainage, keeping tears on the eye longer.
- Warm Compresses: Helps open blocked oil glands in the eyelids, improving tear quality.
- Lifestyle Changes:
- Humidifiers: Adding moisture to dry indoor air.
- Taking breaks from screen time (the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
- Proper hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help maintain tear production.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Some studies suggest that omega-3 supplements can help improve tear production and quality.
- Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be required, such as to correct the eyelids’ position or to remove obstructions in the tear ducts.
