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Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inadequate lubrication. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the eye’s surface and ensuring clear vision, and insufficient tears can cause discomfort, and in some cases, vision problems.
Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
- Aging: Tear production tends to decrease with age.
- Environmental Factors: Wind, smoke, and dry climates can contribute to tear evaporation.
- Screen Time: Prolonged use of computers, smartphones, or tablets can reduce blink rate, leading to dry eyes.
- Medications: Certain medications like antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants can reduce tear production.
- Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes can cause dry eye.
Who are at risk?
- Individuals aged 50 and above
- Female
- Contact lens wearers
- Smokers
- Individuals with autoimmune diseases (such as Sjogren’s syndrome)
- Individuals taking certain medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, birth control pills, and antidepressants
- Individuals who underwent refractive surgeries (usually temporary)
- Individuals with eyelid problems such as ectropion (eyelid turns outward) and entropion (eyelid turns inward)
- Individuals with low blinking rate after long hours of computer use, reading, or driving a vehicle
- Individuals who live in an area with windy and dry climate
Preventing Dry Eye Syndrome
- Stay hydrated : Drink plenty of water.
- Take breaks : Follow the 20-20-20 rule - every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
- Adjust screen settings : Reduce screen brightness and increase font size to reduce eye strain.
- Wear protective eyewear : Using sunglasses that block wind and UV light can help prevent dryness.
How is it treated?
Treatment aims to keep the eyes well lubricated, but the approach depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include using artificial tears and reducing tear drainage. For those who have eyelid problems, an oculoplastic surgeon may recommend eyelid reconstructive surgery.
Lifestyle changes can also help reduce dry eye symptoms. These include, but are not limited to: avoiding air blowing in the eyes, using a humidifier in the house, wearing wraparound sunglasses to block wind and dry air, taking breaks from reading to screen time and quitting smoking.
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Our Priority
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