One of the most common causes of dry eye syndrome is decreased tear production by the lacrimal glands. This reduction is often linked to aging, as the lacrimal glands produce fewer tears over time.
Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Introduction
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome, also known as ocular dryness, is a common condition where the eyes either fail to produce enough tears or the quality of those tears is insufficient to maintain proper lubrication of the eye's surface. This can cause irritation, burning sensations, grittiness, and even blurred vision. Dry eye syndrome may be temporary or chronic, affecting an increasing number of people, particularly with prolonged screen use and aging.
Some factors that may predispose individuals to dry eye syndrome include medication use, lifestyle habits, and wearing face masks for extended periods.
Why?
Causes...
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Reduced Tear Production
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Infections and Inflammation
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Medications
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Environmental Factors
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Disruption of Tear Quality
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Prolonged Screen Use
Reduced Tear Production
Infections and Inflammation
Certain inflammatory conditions, such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) or conjunctivitis, can affect tear production or quality, leading to dry eye syndrome.
Medications
Some medications can reduce tear production. These include antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, and certain blood pressure drugs.
Environmental Factors
Dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments—as well as exposure to smoke or air pollution—can speed up tear evaporation and contribute to dry eyes.
Disruption of Tear Quality
In addition to tear quantity, tear quality can also be affected. Malfunctioning Meibomian glands, which produce the oily layer of the tear film, can cause tears to evaporate too quickly.
Prolonged Screen Use
Staring at a computer, phone, or tablet for long periods can reduce blinking frequency. This interferes with the regular spread of tears across the eye’s surface and can worsen dryness.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome
Symptoms vary from person to person, but the most common include:
- Burning or stinging sensations in the eyes
- Grittiness or a foreign body sensation
- Redness in the eyes
- Blurred vision, especially after prolonged reading or screen use
- Eye fatigue and difficulty tolerating bright environments or air currents
- Excessive tearing, paradoxically, as the eyes try to compensate for dryness by producing more tears
- Reduced tolerance to contact lenses
Tests
Dry Eye Assessment
Your optometrist has the training and equipment to conduct an objective evaluation of dry eye syndrome. Specific tests will be performed to assess the integrity of the ocular surface, eyelid health, and tear quality. These tests help determine the level of dryness and guide your optometrist in recommending the appropriate treatment, whether you have symptoms or not. Follow-up tests may be necessary to monitor improvements and adjust treatment if needed to better manage the condition.
Solutions
How to Treat and Relieve Dry Eye Syndrome
The treatment for dry eye syndrome depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. After your evaluation, your optometrist will recommend the most suitable options for you. An effective treatment plan may include a combination of:
- Warm compresses with an eye mask / followed by forced blinking exercises
- Eyelid and eyelash hygiene
- Lubrication with artificial tears and/or ointments
- Omega-3 supplements
- Staying hydrated to support overall eye moisture
- Medications: anti-inflammatory, antihistamines, immunosuppressants
- Other treatments: thermal pulsation therapy, IPL (intense pulsed light)
- Lifestyle adjustments, including screen time management and blinking habits
Your OPTOPLUS Optometrist Can Help
A comprehensive eye health exam and dry eye assessment can identify the root cause of your discomfort.
Your optometrist will create a personalized treatment and follow-up plan to care for your eye health and relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome.