Dry eye syndrome refers to insufficient moisture and lubrication of the eye surface.
The medical term keratitis sicca also describes dry eyes. It is a decrease of the amount and quality of tears. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is an ocular dryness that affects both the cornea and conjunctiva.
Dry eye syndrome symptoms can include:
- persistent dryness
- burning, stinging sensation
- “Foreign body sensation” is the feeling that something is in the eye.
- Sometimes, paradoxically, your eyes can be moist. This happens because the dry ocular surface stimulates the production the aqueous component to tears as a protective mechanism.
- ocular redness
The Schirmer test is an easy way to measure tear production in an ophthalmology clinic.
Dry eye syndrome: Causes
Tears moisturize the eye and remove foreign bodies. They also lubricate the ocular surface. They contain enzymes that kill microorganisms and are essential for eye health.Dry eye syndrome is when the accessory glands or main lacrimal glands don’t produce enough tears or the tears are not sufficiently chemically balanced to cause rapid evaporation.
There are many causes of dry eye syndrome:
- The natural aging process, particularly during menopause.
- Side effects of many drugs include antihistamines and antidepressants as well as certain antiparkinsonian, antiparkinsonian, and contraceptives.
- Dry, windy, and dusty climate
- A dry heating system or air conditioning;
- Insufficient blinking as when looking at a computer screen long enough;
- Systemic diseases include lupus and rheumatoidarthritis, acne rosacea, lupus, and rheumatoid rheumatoid.
- Contact lenses that are worn for a long time;
- smoking;
- Palpebral disorders, incomplete closing of the eyeslids and lacrimal gland deficiencies can all lead to an inability to close them.
Tears can be divided into three layers
- The outer layer, which is lipidic and oily
- The middle, aqueous layer
- The mucous layer is the inner layer.
Different glands produce different layers. For example, the main lacrimal gland is responsible for producing the aqueous layer. Dry eyes can result from any one of these sources.
Dry eye syndrome can be treated
Dry eye syndrome can cause dry eyes. However, it is possible to manage the accompanying symptoms like dryness and burning sensations. Artificial tears can be prescribed by an ophthalmologist to lubricate the eye’s surface and relieve dryness. They can also recommend nutritional supplements that contain omega-3 fatty acid.
Proper hydration is also important. Dry eye symptoms can often be worsened by mild dehydration, particularly in hot, dry, and windy conditions. Drinking water can help to improve your symptoms.
To reduce dust, sun and wind exposure, sunglasses are recommended for environmental problems. An indoor air purifier will filter dust and other particles out of the air. A humidifier adds moisture to dry air.
Dry eye can be solved if medications are being used. In this instance, it is important to weigh the benefits of the initial treatment against the side effects of dry eyes. Sometimes, switching to another medication can relieve dry eye symptoms and maintain the required treatment. The attending physician must consent to any change or interruption in medication.
It is recommended to treat blepharitis and other eyelid conditions.
Dry eye syndrome can be caused by contact lenses. The ophthalmologist may recommend changing the lenses or reducing the amount of time they are worn. It is sometimes recommended that contact lenses be removed until dry eye syndrome is resolved.
To stop the tears from dripping too fast, silicone plugs can be placed at the level the lacrimal points.
Dry eye syndrome can be very frustrating and can be diagnosed by an ophthalmologist. Treatments will depend on the etiology.