Dry eye disease, a common yet often underestimated condition, may seem like a minor inconvenience, but extends beyond simple discomfort, potentially leading to reduced quality of life and visual impairment. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of dry eye disease, exploring its causes, symptoms, available treatments, and preventive measures.
Most of us have had dry eyes at some point in our lives. This is a condition in which you do not generate enough tears to keep your eyes moist and safe from injury. This creates inflammation in the eyes, which causes discomfort.
What Exactly Is Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly.
Dr Aloka Sharma, Eye Specialist at Max Super-speciality Hospital, Kochi, said, “Tears play a vital role in maintaining eye health, providing lubrication, nourishment, and protection against infection. When the tear film is compromised, the delicate ocular surface becomes exposed, resulting in dryness, redness, and irritation”.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors contribute to the development of dry eye disease. Some common causes and risk factors include:
- Age: As we age, tear production tends to decrease, making older adults more susceptible to dry eyes.
- Environmental factors: Prolonged exposure to dry or windy environments, air conditioning, or excessive screen time can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly in women during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking oral contraceptives, can influence tear production.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions like autoimmune diseases (e.gSjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes, thyroid disorders, and allergies can increase the risk of dry eye disease.
- Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and hormone replacement therapy, may cause or exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
Symptoms Of Dry Eyes Disease
According to Dr Sharma, the symptoms of dry eye disease can vary in intensity and may include:
- Dryness: A persistent dry sensation in the eyes.
- Irritation: Itching, burning, or a gritty feeling in the eyes.
- Redness: Bloodshot appearance due to inflammation.
- Watery eyes: Paradoxically, dry eyes can sometimes trigger excessive tearing as a reflex response.
- Blurred vision: Vision may become intermittently hazy or distorted.
- Sensitivity to light: Increased sensitivity to bright light or glare.
How To Prevent Dry Eye Disease
Preventing dry eye disease involves adopting healthy habits and protective measures:
- Blink regularly: Be conscious of blinking, especially during tasks that require intense focus, such as reading or working on a computer.
- Maintain proper humidity: Use a humidifier to prevent excessively dry indoor air.
- Follow a balanced diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, as they promote eye health.
- Stay hydrated: Drink an adequate amount of water to support overall hydration, including tear production.
Treatment Options
Dr Aloka Sharma offers some advice on how to avoid dry eyes and this syndrome. You can keep your eyes healthy by following these guidelines.
- Avoid stepping in the way of someone blowing air in your eyes.
- When the air conditioner is on, keep a jug of water nearby. When going outside in the heat, wear sunglasses or protective eyewear.
- Allow your eyes to rest in between long work hours or jobs.
- Keep an eye on your surroundings.
- The position of your computer screen should be somewhat lower than your eye level, so you have to open your eyelids less frequently.
- Do not smoke or be in a smoke-filled environment.
- Keep eye drops on hand and apply them to your eyes once a day.
