DRY EYE SYNDROME

 Basic information

description

• Dry eye syndrome (DES) develops when the surface of the eye is not kept moist. It is caused by problems with tear production. Both eyes are usually involved (one eye may be worse). Some people have no symptoms. DES is a common condition and affects all ages. It occurs more often in older adults and in women.
• Two types of tears are produced in the eyes:
  • Lubricating tears keep the eye moist, clean, and fight infection. These tears are constantly produced and have three layers in their tear film—water, mucus, and oil. With each blink, the eyelids spread the tears over the eye. Excess tears flow into two tiny drainage ducts in the corner of the eye by the nose.
  • Reflex tears are produced in response to emotion, injury, irritation, or can be a response to dry eyes. They make tears more watery.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Eye itching, burning, stinging, or redness.
• Eye irritation, discomfort, pain, or excess tearing.
• Feels like something is in the eye.
• Blurred, changing, or decreased vision (symptoms may improve with blinking).
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses.
• May have mucus in or around the eyes.
• Sensitivity to light.

causes

A decrease in quantity or quality of tear production, or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can be caused by many conditions. Problems can develop in any of the three layers of the tear film—water, mucus, or oil—or in the tiny glands that produce tears.

risk increases with

• Aging (decreased production or poor quality of tears).
• Women after menopause.
• Certain autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus).
• Some drugs (e.g., antihistamines, antidepressants, beta-blockers, and oral contraceptives).
• Conditions such as stroke, Bell's palsy, or eyelid problems. They can make it difficult to close the eyes.
• Lack of vitamin A.
• Contact lens use.
• Eye surgery.
• Other, less common risk factors.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

None specific. Avoid risk factors where possible.

expected outcomes

It is usually a chronic condition. Treatment can relieve symptoms.

possible complications

Rarely, cornea problems or worsening of symptoms.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider or eye care provider will do an eye exam. You may be asked to complete a questionnaire about the dry eye symptoms. Medical tests may be done to assess tear production.
• Treatments may include artificial tear use, other eye or oral drugs, surgery, special eyewear, and self-care.
• Any underlying causes of dry eyes will be treated. If a drug is the cause, a different one may be prescribed.
• Moisture chamber spectacles or customized contact lenses may be recommended to help retain moisture.
• Surgery options may be recommended. In one, tiny plugs are placed in tear drainage ducts to help tears stay on the eye's surface. Eyelid disorders may need surgery.
• Symptoms may increase with reading; watching TV; computer work; hot, dry, or windy climates; high altitudes; air-conditioned or heated rooms; or smoke. Take breaks from computer work, reading, or TV to rest the eyes. Use a humidifier to moisten the air. Avoid smoke. Don't rub eyes. Remember to blink.
• Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) may occur with dry eyes. Treat it with eyelid cleaning and warm soaks.

medications

• Use nonprescription artificial tears (drops, gel, or ointment) with or without preservatives. Try several to find what works best. Preservative-free type is recommended for sensitive eyes or if used more than every 2 hours.
• Other eye products or oral drugs may be prescribed for more severe dry eye symptoms or inflammation.
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplements may be suggested.

activity

Usually, no limits.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has dry eye symptoms.
• Symptoms worsen or don't improve with treatment.

Special Notes: