Symptoms of an eye condition which results due to imbalance in the quality or quantity of tears in the eye is known as dry eye. The symptoms include red, gritty, dry and watery eyes. The balance of tear loss and tear production maintains the level of moisture in the eyes. Dry spots may appear on the eye surface and cause irritation if this balance is not maintained.
Symptoms of Dry Eyes Syndrome
- Burning or stinging eyes
- Excess tearing
- Stringy mucus around or in the eye
- Scratchiness
- Eye irritation from wind and smoke
- Difficulty in wearing contact lenses
Causes of Dry Eyes Syndrome
- There are many causes of this syndrome. The changes in the condition and the amount of tears produced may be caused by the tear glands aging and also specific disorders and diseases.
- Decrease in corneal sensitivity can also result in insufficient production of tears. Wearing some kinds of contact lens can improve the lack of sensitivity.
- If evaporation of tears is excessive, then it may also cause this syndrome. Meibomitis may cause such evaporation. Meibomitis results from inflammation and infection of the meibomin glands present in the eyelids.
- Corneal irregularities or unusual facial anatomy may also cause dry eyes, resulting in inadequate or uneven tear coverage.
- Medications may also cause dry eyes in some patients. Medications such as antihistamines, antibiotics, anti-diarrheals and diuretics can be the cause.
- Tear gland secretions can also get affected by hormonal changes. Artificial tears are to be used in order to tolerate or treat the dry eye.
People suffering from dry eyes are often prone to side effects of the eye medications.
Treatment for Dry Eyes Syndrome
Based on the causes, this syndrome can be treated. Tears must be replaced or conserved in order to provide relief. Following are some of the treatments used to relieve dry eye:
- Adding tears
- Punctual occlusion to conserve the tears
