Dry Eyes

Symptoms

• Dryness: A feeling of dryness or grittiness in the eyes.
• Itching: Itchy or scratchy sensation in the eyes.
• Burning Sensation: A burning or stinging feeling in the eyes.
• Redness: Red or bloodshot eyes.
• Excessive Tearing: Paradoxically, some people may experience excessive tearing as the eyes attempt to compensate for dryness.
• Blurred Vision: Intermittent or persistent blurry vision, often relieved by blinking.
• Eye Fatigue: Discomfort or fatigue, particularly after prolonged reading or screen use.
• Sensitivity to Light: Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).

Complications

• Corneal Damage: Persistent dryness can lead to damage or scarring of the cornea, which can impair vision.
• Increased Risk of Infection: Dry eyes can increase susceptibility to eye infections.
• Reduced Quality of Life: Chronic discomfort and visual disturbances can impact daily activities and overall quality of life.
• Eye Inflammation: Inflammation of the conjunctiva (conjunctivitis) or other parts of the eye.

Causes

Inadequate Tear Production:

• Age: Tear production tends to decrease with age.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like Sjögren's syndrome can reduce tear production.
• Hormonal Changes: Menopause or hormonal changes can affect tear production.

Increased Tear Evaporation:

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to dry or windy environments, or use of air conditioning.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.

Eyelid Issues:

• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelid margins can affect tear quality and distribution.
• Eyelid Position: Problems with eyelid function, such as incomplete closure (lagophthalmos), can lead to dryness.

Health Conditions:

• Diabetes: Can affect tear production and quality.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune conditions can affect tear production.

Contact Lens Use:

• Extended Wear: Prolonged use of contact lenses can exacerbate dry eyes.

Refractive Eye Surgeries:

• LASIK Surgery: Can temporarily or permanently reduce tear production.

Prevention

Avoid Environmental Triggers:

• Humidifiers: Use a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air.
• Protective Eyewear: Wear sunglasses or protective eyewear to shield eyes from wind and dust.

Proper Contact Lens Care:

• Lens Hygiene: Follow recommended practices for cleaning and replacing contact lenses.
• Hydrating Drops: Use rewetting drops designed for contact lens users.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices:

• Balanced Diet: Eat a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish and flaxseeds) to support tear production.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Regular Eye Exams:

• Monitoring: Regular visits to an eye specialist to monitor eye health and adjust treatment as needed.

Minimize Screen Time:

• Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain from prolonged screen use.

Risk Factors

• Age: Older adults are more likely to experience dry eyes due to reduced tear production.
• Gender: Women are more likely to experience dry eyes, especially during menopause.
• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune disorders, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk.
• Medications: Certain medications that reduce tear production.
• Extended Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses for long periods can exacerbate dryness.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to dry or windy conditions.