Dry Eyes

What is Dry Eye?

Dry Eye is a condition where the supply of tears is not enough to keep the eyes adequately lubricated. Eye lubrication is essential for maintaining clear vision and overall comfort. Inadequate lubrication can lead to several uncomfortable symptoms.

If you experience dry eyes, you may feel a stinging or burning sensation in your eyes. This may happen in certain situations such as when you are on a plane, in an air-conditioned room, or after spending hours staring at a computer screen.

The eyes contain glands that produce the components of tears, which are essential for eye health and function. Tears provide moisture and lubrication, and help protect the eyes from infection. An imbalance in tear production or composition can result in dry eye.

What are the symptoms of Dry Eye?

Signs and symptoms typically affect both eyes and include:

• Blurred vision or eye fatigue
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Difficulty with nighttime driving
• Red eyes
• Sensation of having something in your eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Stinging or burning sensations in your eyes
• Scratchy or gritty sensations in your eyes
• Stringy mucus in or around the eyes (in some cases)
• Watery eyes, which is the body's response to the irritation of dry eyes

You should seek medical attention if you experience signs and symptoms of dry eyes for a prolonged period of time.

What are the risk factors of Dry Eyes?

Factors that increase your likelihood of experiencing Dry Eyes include:

• Age: Tear production tends to decrease as you grow older and the condition is more common in those above 50.
• Gender: You are more likely to experience Dry Eyes if you are a woman. Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, birth control pills, or menopause may affect tear production.
• Diet: A diet low in Vitamin A or Omega-3 fatty acids may increase your risk for Dry Eyes. Vitamin A is found in liver, carrots and broccoli while Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish, walnuts and vegetable oils.

Other risk factors include prolonged use of contact lenses and extended screen time, which can reduce blink frequency and tear distribution.

How is Dry Eye diagnosed?

Eye exam
An eye exam is done to assess your eye health.

Schirmer's Test
A Schirmer's Test may be used to measure tear production by placing a strip of paper under the eyelid to see how much moisture it absorbs.