Dry Eye Image

What is Dry Eye?

Dry Eye, also known as Dry Eye Syndrome or Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, is a common condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the quality of tears is inadequate to keep the eye's surface lubricated. Tears are essential for maintaining eye health, clarity of vision, and comfort. When tear production or function is disrupted, it leads to dryness, irritation, and inflammation of the eye surface. The condition can be temporary or chronic, affecting daily activities such as reading, driving, or working on a computer. It is especially common in older adults, contact lens wearers, and people exposed to prolonged screen time or dry environments.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry Eye symptoms may vary in intensity and can affect one or both eyes. Common signs include:

  • A gritty, sandy, or burning sensation in the eyes
  • Redness and irritation
  • Excessive tearing (as a reflex to dryness)
  • Blurred or fluctuating vision
  • Eye fatigue, especially after screen use
  • Light sensitivity
  • Mucus discharge from the eyes
  • Discomfort while wearing contact lenses
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Types of Dry Eye

Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye

Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye

Occurs when the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough water content in the tears. It is commonly associated with autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome or aging.

Evaporative Dry Eye

Evaporative Dry Eye

Results from excessive tear evaporation due to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which affects the oily layer of the tear film. This is the most common form of dry eye and is often linked to screen exposure, blepharitis, or environmental conditions.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your risk of developing Dry Eye:

  • Age (especially over 50)
  • Female gender (due to hormonal changes)
  • Prolonged screen time
  • Contact lens usage
  • Dry or windy environments
  • Air conditioning or heating exposure
  • Certain medications (e.g., antihistamines, antidepressants)
  • Eye surgery (such as LASIK)
  • Autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus)

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis includes a comprehensive eye exam, tear film analysis, and specialized tests such as Schirmer’s test or tear breakup time (TBUT). Treatment depends on the severity and cause:

  • Artificial tear drops or gels
  • Lubricating ointments for overnight use
  • Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops (e.g., cyclosporine)
  • Punctal plugs to retain natural tears
  • Warm compresses and eyelid hygiene for MGD
  • Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
  • Lifestyle changes such as reducing screen time or using a humidifier

Home Care & Prevention

Managing Dry Eye involves consistent care and preventive measures:

  • Blink regularly, especially during screen use
  • Use protective eyewear in windy or dry environments
  • Maintain eyelid hygiene
  • Avoid smoke and direct fan/AC airflow to your face
  • Take screen breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 mins, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet