Dry Eye Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome, also known as dry eye disease, occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Symptoms of dry eye can vary in severity and may include:

1. Stinging or burning sensation: Dry eyes can cause a stinging or burning sensation in the eyes.
2. Redness: The eyes may appear red or bloodshot due to irritation from dryness.
3. Foreign body sensation: It may feel like there is something in your eye, such as sand or grit.
4. Blurry vision: Dry eyes can cause temporary blurry vision, especially during activities that require prolonged visual attention, such as reading or using a computer.
5. Sensitivity to light: Dry eyes can make your eyes more sensitive to light, a condition known as photophobia.
6. Watery eyes: Paradoxically, dry eye syndrome can sometimes cause your eyes to water excessively as a reflex response to dryness.
7. Difficulty wearing contact lenses: Dry eyes can make it uncomfortable to wear contact lenses.
8. Eye fatigue: Prolonged periods of dryness can lead to eye fatigue or discomfort, especially after long periods of reading, driving, or using a computer.
9. Stringy mucus in or around the eyes: Insufficient tear production can result in an increase in the production of mucus, which can be noticeable.
10. Difficulty driving at night: Dry eyes can cause glare or halos around lights, which can make it difficult to see clearly when driving at night.

If you experience persistent or severe symptoms of dry eye, it’s important to see an eye care professional for an evaluation. Dry eye syndrome can be managed with various treatments, such as artificial tears, prescription medications, and lifestyle changes.

What are the causes of dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome can be caused by various factors that affect the quantity or quality of tears produced by the eyes. Some common causes and risk factors include:

1. Age: Dry eye syndrome is more common as you age, especially after age 50.
2. Gender: Women are more likely to develop dry eye syndrome, possibly due to hormonal changes.
3. Environmental factors: Dry or windy climates, high altitudes, air conditioning, and heating can all contribute to dry eye syndrome.
4. Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and hormonal therapies, can reduce tear production.
5. Medical conditions: Conditions such as autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus), diabetes, thyroid disorders, and vitamin A deficiency can increase the risk of dry eye syndrome.
6. Eyelid problems: Problems with eyelid closure or blinking, such as ectropion (outward-turning eyelid) or entropion (inward-turning eyelid), can lead to inadequate spreading of tears over the eye.
7. Contact lens use: Long-term use of contact lenses can increase the risk of dry eye syndrome.
8. Eye surgery: Refractive surgeries, such as LASIK, can sometimes lead to dry eye syndrome.
9. Extended screen time: Prolonged use of digital devices can reduce blink rate and lead to dry eye symptoms.
10. Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of dry eye syndrome.
11. Incomplete blinking: Activities that reduce the frequency or completeness of blinking, such as prolonged staring at screens, can contribute to dry eye syndrome.
12. Dietary factors: Poor nutrition, particularly a diet low in omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to dry eye syndrome.
13. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can affect tear production.

It’s important to address the underlying cause of dry eye syndrome to effectively manage the condition. If you experience symptoms of dry eye syndrome, consult an eye care professional for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

What is the treatment for dry eye syndrome?

The treatment for dry eye syndrome depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Here are some common approaches to managing dry eye syndrome:

1. Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tear drops can help lubricate the eyes and relieve dryness. These drops are available in various formulations, so it may be necessary to try different types to find one that works best for you.
2. Prescription eye drops: In some cases, prescription eye drops, such as cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra), may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
3. Eye ointments or gels: These thicker formulations can provide longer-lasting relief, especially at night.
4. Punctal plugs: These are small plugs inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage and keep tears on the surface of the eye longer.
5. Medications to reduce eyelid inflammation: Inflammation along the edge of the eyelids (blepharitis) can contribute to dry eye syndrome. Medications or eyelid hygiene techniques may help manage this inflammation.
6. Environmental and lifestyle changes: Avoiding environmental factors that can worsen dry eye, such as smoke, wind, and dry air, can help. Taking breaks during prolonged periods of screen time and using a humidifier in dry indoor environments can also be beneficial.
7. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements: Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may help improve the quality of tears in people with dry eye syndrome.
8. Treatment of underlying conditions: Managing underlying conditions that contribute to dry eye, such as autoimmune diseases or eyelid problems, may help improve symptoms.
9. Scleral contact lenses: These large-diameter contact lenses can help protect the cornea and retain moisture, providing relief for severe dry eye.
10. Lipiflow: This procedure applies heat and pressure to the eyelids to help clear blocked oil glands and improve the quality of the tear film.
11. Amniotic membrane transplant: In severe cases of dry eye, a thin piece of tissue from the placenta (amniotic membrane) can be placed on the surface of the eye to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

It’s important to work with an eye care professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific case of dry eye syndrome. Treatment may need to be tailored to address your individual symptoms and underlying causes.