Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dry eye condition affects the tear film, leaving the eye surface without adequate moisture. It occurs when the tears evaporate too quickly or when they are not enough. It can leave the eyes feeling gritty, burning, and itching. 

The relatively common condition can be due to different medical or environmental factors. Various treatments can help reduce the symptoms based on the underlying cause of the dry eye. 

Understand Dry Eye Syndrome 

A tear film covers the eye surface. It has three layers: oil, water, and mucus. A stable and smooth tear film helps protect and nourish the eyes, ensuring clear and comfortable vision. Dry eye syndrome can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as a burning sensation, itching, and watering. It also leads to blurry vision and the sensation of something in the eye. If not treated, dry eye can lead to complications such as corneal scarring or ulcers and vision loss.

Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome 

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too fast. Certain medical conditions and medications can cause dry eye. Contact lens use, allergies, smoking, and prolonged digital screen use can lead to dry eye symptoms. 

Various factors can increase the risk of developing dry eye or cause the symptoms to worsen. Some risks are uncontrollable, including aging and hormonal changes. Other risks, such as lifestyle and environmental factors, can be controlled. The condition can also be due to eye surgeries. 

Types of Dry Eye Syndrome

There are various types of dry eye. They include:

• Aqueous deficient dry eye. It occurs when the eyes fail to produce enough tears and affects the lacrimal gland. 

• Evaporative dry eye. It happens when the tear film evaporates too quickly. It is often due to meibomian gland dysfunction.

• Mixed dry eye. It is where the tear film is unstable, and the patient also has aqueous tear deficiency.

Dry eye can occur on its own or be a consequence of other medical conditions. It can be due to diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, blepharitis, or thyroid eye disease. 

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

The symptoms of dry eye vary in individuals; these can be mild, moderate, or severe. The symptoms include:

• A scratchy or itchy sensation

• A sensation of something in the eye

• A stinging or burning feeling

• Blurry vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Mucus discharge from the eyes

• Excessive eye-watering

If you experience these symptoms, visit your eye care provider as soon as possible. 

Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome 

An eye care specialist can diagnose dry eye syndrome after a comprehensive eye exam. A proper diagnosis is essential to get the most effective treatment. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, improve vision, and prevent damage to the eye surface. Treating the underlying cause of the condition can help ease symptoms. Treatment options include eye drops, punctal plugs, thermal pulsation therapy, intense pulsed light therapy, and therapeutic contact lenses.

You can soothe your eyes and reduce dry eye symptoms with simple home remedies. Use a humidifier in your home, avoid environmental triggers, and apply a warm compress over the eyes each night. Take frequent breaks when using digital devices, drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy diet. 

For more information on understanding dry eye syndrome, visit Hunter Family Vision at our office in Leawood or Prairie Village, Kansas. Call (913) 681-8555 or (913) 381-2323 to schedule an appointment today. For after-hours emergency care, call (913) 204-0239.