Understanding Dry Eyes: Causes, Symptoms, and Remedies

Dry eyes result from the eyes lacking sufficient tear production, leading to inadequate lubrication. This condition causes the eyes to become dehydrated and uncomfortable. Many individuals experience dry eye symptoms at some point, affecting their quality of life.

Common signs include inflammation, scarring, a feeling of grit, blurred vision, burning, redness, tenderness, and a frequent sensation of foreign objects. Sometimes, the eyes produce excess tears as a defense mechanism, causing watering despite dryness.

Prompt treatment is essential to prevent potential damage. Tears are composed of three parts: oils, water, and mucus, each playing a vital role in eye health. These components help ward off infections, flush out dust, and protect the cornea.

The three layers supporting ocular health include oils, mucus, and watery liquid. Lipids prevent tears from evaporating quickly, mucus ensures universal spread across the eye surface, and water keeps the eyes moist. These are produced by specific glands: Meibomian glands secrete oils, lacrimal glands produce water, and goblet cells generate mucus. Any dysfunction among them can lead to dry eye issues.

• The Meibomian glands produce the oil layer.
• The lacrimal glands secrete the aqueous component, and deficiency leads to aqueous dry eye.
• The goblet cells of the conjunctiva produce mucins.

If you're unsure about having dry eyes, consulting an eye specialist is recommended. They will conduct tests to diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatments. Common causes include:

Reduced tear production

• Age-related decline
• Medications such as antihypertensives, acne treatments, contraceptives, and Parkinson’s drugs
• Laser eye surgeries
• Hormonal pills, decongestants, antihistamines, antidepressants
• Underlying conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes, rheumatism, vitamin A deficiency, thyroid issues, or scleroderma
• Damage to tear glands from inflammation or radiation
• Higher tear evaporation rates

Increased tear evaporation

• Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry environments
• Inward or outward eyelid turning
• Prolonged concentration on screens or reading without blinking
• Imbalance in tear components

Diagnosis and Management

Eye tests performed by specialists confirm dry eye conditions. Symptoms alone are insufficient for diagnosis, as they vary. Early diagnosis and understanding underlying causes help prevent recurrence. Treatment options include:

• Regular breaks during screen time
• Artificial tears to lubricate eyes
• Prescription medications to boost tear production and reduce inflammation
• Adherence to medical advice for quick recovery