Dry eye is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing eye discomfort, visual disturbance, and tear film instability.
Dry eye syndrome symptoms
The symptoms of dry eye include:
- Eye irritation
- Burning or stinging
- Itching
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Excessive tearing in some cases
- Light sensitivity
- Stringy discharge from the eye
- A feeling of something foreign in the eye
- Eyelids sticking together, especially upon waking up.
Causes of dry eye
The causes of dry eye can include:
- Aging
- Environmental factors (e.g. wind, dry air)
- Medications (e.g. antihistamines, decongestants)
- Health conditions (e.g. Sjogren’s syndrome, lupus)
- Eye surgeries (e.g. LASIK)
- Hormonal changes
- Prolonged computer or device use
- Smoking
- A diet lacking essential fatty acids
- Certain medical treatments (e.g. radiation therapy)
How to diagnose dry eye?
Dry eye can be diagnosed by an eye doctor through a comprehensive eye exam, which typically includes:
- A review of medical history
- A test of tear production
- Measuring the eye’s surface and tear film quality
- Evaluation of meibomian glands
- Assessment of eyelid health
In some cases, further tests may be required, such as a Schirmer’s test, fluorescein stain, or imaging tests to diagnose and evaluate the severity of dry eye.
Dry eye syndrome symptoms relief
There are several ways to relieve dry eye syndrome, including:
- Use artificial tears
- Blink regularly
- Use a humidifier
- Avoid exposure to wind and dry air
- Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes from wind and sun
- Use a warm compress
- Reduce screen time
- Avoid smoking
- Add more omega-3 fatty acids to the diet
- Take breaks during prolonged tasks
- Consult a doctor for prescription treatments (e.g. punctal plugs, medications)
When to see a eye doctor?
It is recommended to see an eye doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent or worsening symptoms
- Significant interference with daily activities
- Sudden onset of symptoms
- Eye pain or vision changes
- Excessive tearing that does not improve with over-the-counter remedies.
An eye doctor can diagnose the underlying cause of dry eye and provide personalized treatment recommendations to alleviate symptoms and improve eye health.
