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Dry Eye Syndrome

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome is one of the most common problems treated by eye surgeons and is usually caused by a reduced quality of the tear film that lubricates the eyes.

Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome has many causes; The Ageing process is most common and this is due to a decrease in the amount of oil produced which causes the tear film to evapourate quicker, leaving dry areas on the cornea.

Other causes include hot, dry or windy climates, high altitudes, air-conditioning and cigarette smoke. Many people also find their eyes become irritated when reading or working on a computer.

Contact lens wearers can also suffer from dryness due to the contact lenses absorbing the tear film. this causes proteins to form on the surface of the lens.

Women frequently experience problems with dry eyes as they enter menopause because of hormonal changes.

Diagnosis of Dry Eye Syndrome

Symptoms include:

• Itching
• Burning
• Irritation
• Redness
• Blurred vision that improves with blinking
• Excessive tearing
• Increased discomfort after periods of reading, watching TV, or working on a computer

Treatments of Dry Eye Syndrome

It is important to treat dry eye problems for the health of the cornea, as well as for comfort.

Dry eyes can be treated with a number of different methods according the patienst needs, suitable treatments include:

Artificial tears which are lubricating eyedrops that may alleviate the dry, scratching feeling to the eyes.

Punctal plugs, which are temporary or permanent silicone plugs in the lacrimal (tear) ducts that reduce the speed at which tears drain from the eye.

Lifestyle changes may also help such as drinking more water, making a conscious effort to blink frequently and avoiding rubbing the eyes, which only increases the irritation.

Contact lenses wear causing dry eyes may indicate the need to try a different lenses or to wear contact lenses for less hours each day. This is something that should be discussed with your eye care practitioner.