What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES), also called dry eye disease (DED), is a condition that can significantly impact daily life and comfort. It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, irritation, redness, and sometimes blurred vision.

What causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

DES is a multifactorial condition. Common causes include:

• Aqueous-deficient dry eye: The lacrimal glands don’t produce enough tear fluid.
• Evaporative dry eye: The meibomian glands don’t produce enough oil, causing tears to evaporate quickly.

Who is at risk for Dry Eye Syndrome?

Several factors increase the risk of developing dry eye:

• Age: Tear production decreases with age, especially after 50.
• Gender: Hormonal changes in women (e.g., menopause) often lead to dry eye.
• Environment: Dry, windy, or smoky conditions and prolonged screen use.
• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes, and thyroid disorders.
• Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure drugs can reduce tear production.
• Lifestyle: Wearing contact lenses and eating low omega-3 diets can contribute to dry eye.

What are the symptoms?

Dry eye symptoms vary but may include:

• Dryness or gritty sensations.
• Burning, stinging, or itching.
• Redness and irritation.
• Blurred vision or eye fatigue.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Paradoxical excessive tearing as the eyes try to compensate.

How is Dry Eye Syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis includes reviewing your symptoms and conducting tests such as:

• Schirmer’s Test: Measures tear production.
• Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT): Tests tear stability.
• Ocular Surface Staining: Identifies eye surface damage.
• Meibomian Gland Evaluation: Checks oil gland function.

How is Dry Eye Syndrome treated?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity:

1. Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter drops for mild cases.
2. Prescription Medications: Anti-inflammatory drops like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra).
3. Punctal Plugs: Block tear drainage to retain moisture.
4. Warm Compresses and Lid Hygiene: Help unblock oil glands.
5. Lifestyle Adjustments: Staying hydrated, taking screen breaks, and using humidifiers.
6. Omega-3 Supplements: May improve tear quality.

Can Dry Eye Syndrome be cured?

While there’s no cure for Dry Eye Syndrome, treatments can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Regular follow-ups with an eye care specialist are key to optimal management.