Reduced Tear Production
The glands that make tears slow down, most often with age, leaving the eye surface under-lubricated.
Learn why eyes become dry, how to recognize the signs and which treatments can bring lasting relief.
Introduction
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome, also known as ocular dryness, develops when the eyes either produce too few tears or produce tears that are not of good enough quality to keep the surface of the eye properly moist. The result can be irritation, a burning feeling, a gritty sensation and blurred vision. It may come and go or become long-lasting, and it is increasingly common because of long hours in front of screens and the natural effects of ageing.
Certain medicines, everyday habits and wearing a face mask for long stretches can also make it more likely.
Causes…
Infection and Inflammation
Eyelid inflammation (blepharitis) or conjunctivitis can change how many tears you make and how good they are.
Medications
Some allergy tablets, antidepressants, water pills and blood pressure medicines can lower tear output.
Environment
Dry, windy or air-conditioned rooms, smoke and polluted air make tears evaporate faster.
Poor Tear Quality
When the oil-producing Meibomian glands in the eyelids do not work properly, tears dry out too quickly.
Long Screen Time
Staring at a computer, phone or tablet reduces blinking, so tears are spread less often and dryness builds.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome
Signs differ from person to person, but these are the ones people notice most often:
- A burning or stinging feeling
- A gritty sensation, as if something is in the eye
- Redness
- Blurry vision, particularly after reading or using a screen
- Tired eyes and sensitivity to bright light or drafts
- Watery eyes, which happens when the eye over-reacts to dryness
- Less comfort when wearing contact lenses
Dry Eye Assessment
An optometrist can examine the surface of your eye, the condition of your eyelids and the quality of your tears to measure dry eye objectively. The findings show how serious the dryness is and help choose the right treatment, even if you do not yet have noticeable symptoms. Follow-up visits may be needed to see how things are improving and to adjust the plan.
Solutions
How to Treat and Relieve Dry Eye Syndrome
The best approach depends on what is behind your dryness and how strong the symptoms are, so your optometrist will suggest options after your assessment. A treatment plan can combine several of the following:
- Warm compresses with an eye mask, followed by deliberate, firm blinking
- Regular cleaning of the eyelids and lashes
- Lubricating drops (artificial tears) and/or ointments
- Omega-3 supplements
- Drinking enough water
- Prescription medicines such as anti-inflammatory, antihistamine or immune-suppressing treatments
- In-clinic options such as thermal pulsation and intense pulsed light (IPL)
- Habit changes, like limiting screen time and blinking more often
A thorough eye health exam together with a dry eye assessment can uncover what is really causing your discomfort.
From there, your optometrist can build a personalized treatment and follow-up plan to ease your symptoms and look after the long-term health of your eyes.