Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the surface of the eye lacks sufficient lubrication. This condition mainly results from malfunctioning tear ducts, affecting millions across the United States.

The Role of Tears

The cornea, the eye's outermost layer, relies on basal tears—a mixture secreted by tear glands—to stay moist. These tears form a protective layer, ensuring clear vision and eye health.

Tears keep the eyes hydrated by coating the surface with each blink and facilitate sharp vision by focusing light onto the pupil.

A deficiency in basal tears or abnormal tear composition can cause vision issues and discomfort.

Tear composition comprises three layers:

Oil/Lipid Layer: Outer layer produced by Meibomian glands, prevents evaporation, retains moisture.

Aqueous Layer: Middle layer consisting of water and water-soluble proteins, produced mainly by lacrimal glands.

Mucin Layer: Inner layer secreted by goblet cells, binds to water molecules, preventing quick evaporation.

Signs of Dry Eyes

Common among adults, especially women, dry eye symptoms include itching, burning, and stinging sensations. Excessive tear shedding followed by dryness, redness, or a sensation of heaviness can occur. Sometimes vision might become blurry.

Underlying Causes

Dry eyes can stem from insufficient tears, tear composition imbalance, or rapid evaporation.

Medications for respiratory issues, depression, or reproductive health may cause dryness.

Older adults over 50 are at increased risk due to natural aging processes.

Inflammation affecting Meibomian glands impairs tear production.

Autoimmune conditions, metabolic disorders like diabetes or thyroid issues, and vitamin deficiencies influence tear quality.

Hormonal shifts during pregnancy or menopause can lead to dryness.

Environmental factors such as wind, dust, smoke, and dry climates accelerate tear evaporation.

Allergies may also trigger dry eye symptoms.

Extended screen time reduces blinking, resulting in decreased tear spread and dryness.

Post-laser eye surgery cases might experience temporary dryness.

Diagnosis and Management

If you suspect dry eyes, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and to rule out underlying conditions.

Mild cases can often be managed with OTC artificial tears, gels, or ointments, alongside lifestyle adjustments like limiting screen time, taking regular breaks, and increasing blinking.

Protecting eyes from environmental irritants with sunglasses and avoiding hot or dry air can help prevent dryness.

Severe cases may require prescribed medications or surgical interventions.

Early treatment prevents aggravation; therefore, seek medical advice promptly for persistent symptoms.