Dry Eye
Dry Eye Syndrome is one of the most common reasons people visit eye care professionals. While it may sound minor, persistent dryness can significantly affect comfort, vision, and overall quality of life.
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the quality of your tears is poor. Tears are essential for lubricating the surface of the eye, protecting against infection, and ensuring clear vision.
Common Causes
Several factors can contribute to dry eye, including:
Ageing – Tear production naturally decreases with age.
Screen time – Extended computer or phone use can reduce blinking, leading to dryness.
Medications – Certain antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure tablets may worsen symptoms.
Medical conditions – Autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or thyroid disease.
Environmental factors – Dry air, wind, and air conditioning can all increase evaporation of tears.
Symptoms to Look Out For
People with dry eye may notice:
A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
Burning, stinging, or itching
Redness
Blurred vision that improves with blinking
Sensitivity to light
Diagnosis and Treatment
An ophthalmologist can diagnose dry eye through a comprehensive eye examination. Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops
Prescription medication to improve tear quality or reduce inflammation
Punctal plugs to slow tear drainage
Adjustments to medications contributing to dryness
Lifestyle changes such as taking breaks from screens, using a humidifier, or wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors
Why It Matters
Dry eye is more than just a nuisance — if left untreated, it can cause damage to the surface of the eye and increase the risk of infection. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can greatly improve comfort and protect vision.
Disclaimer: This article was created with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model, and has been reviewed for accuracy and relevance. It is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. For personal eye health concerns, please consult a qualified ophthalmologist.