Dry Eye

Dry eye syndrome is a common eye ailment characterized by a lack of tear flow. It usually affects both eyes and causes severe discomfort in the form of stinging, itching, or burning. Tears help the eye maintain a healthy environment. Tears are produced by Meibomian glands, which are located around the eyes. These glands create a healthy tear film that lubricates the eyes with oils, moisture, and mucus, allowing the tear layer to be evenly distributed across the front of the eye. The tear layer’s antibodies and proteins even aid in the battle against infection. A smooth tear film also provides an effective optical surface on the cornea, which improves vision quality.

Dry eye and its associated difficulties can be caused by a disturbance in tear production, however, tear imbalance is not the only known cause of dry eye. Other reasons for dry eyes include: Environmental determinants (dry air, high temperatures, windy weather, etc.)
Adverse effects of medications (e.g., antihistamines are known to cause dry eye)
exposure to the sun
Defects in the eyelids inhibit complete closure.
Allergies
LASIK eye surgery
Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and other diseases that restrict tear formation
Pregnancy
Vitamin deficiency (insufficient or excessive vitamin intake)
Blinking occurs infrequently.
Cosmetic surgery is a procedure that is used to improve (treatments that cause the eyes to open too wide)
The process of aging (tear production diminishes as we get older)

Over-the-counter eye drops (artificial tears) administered two to four times per day are the most accessible and common treatment for dry eye. Although eye drops can help with the symptoms of dry eye syndrome, they don’t always address the underlying cause of insufficient tear production, rendering them only a temporary fix in certain circumstances. Speaking with a knowledgeable eye specialist and undergoing tests are the only ways to find the ideal treatment solution for your specific brand of dry eye. This will reveal the underlying causes and allow the doctor to create a treatment plan that is unique to you.

References:
Dry eye syndrome – causes, symptoms, and treatments. (2019, April 22). Retrieved from https://www.bettervisionguide.com/dry-eye-syndrome/