You likely notice tears in your eyes when you are extremely happy or sad. However, healthy eyes constantly produce a small amount of fluid known as the tear film. This essential layer protects your eyes and aids in clear vision.
The tear film is composed of three main parts: the aqueous (liquid) layer, the lipid (oil) layer, and the mucin (mucus) layer.
Dry Eye Syndrome, also known medically as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when the aqueous layer of tears is not produced adequately. However, dry eyes can also result from deficiencies or instability in any of the other tear film layers. In this article, we will explore the common signs, symptoms, and diagnostic methods for Dry Eye Syndrome.
Common Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
You might wonder why we develop Dry Eye Syndrome. Below, we examine the most common factors contributing to this condition.
Aging
Naturally, tear production diminishes with age. Dry eyes are particularly common in women following menopause due to hormonal changes.
Medications
The use of certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs can cause dry eyes as a side effect. These include:
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Antihistamines
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Antidepressants
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Diuretics (water pills)
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Certain medications for Parkinson’s disease
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Birth control pills
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Morphine-based painkillers
LASIK Eye Surgery
Certain eye surgeries, such as LASIK refractive surgery, can lead to temporary or chronic dry eyes due to nerve disruption during the procedure.
Underlying Health Conditions
Dry eyes may develop as a symptom of systemic diseases or other ocular conditions, such as:
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Sjögren’s syndrome
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Stevens-Johnson syndrome
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Blepharitis ( eyelid inflammation)
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Stroke
Key Symptoms of Dry Eyes
There are specific indicators that help in identifying this condition. Common symptoms of dry eyes include:
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Eye itching
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A gritty sensation, like feeling a foreign object or sand inside the eye
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A burning or stinging sensation
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Blurred vision that often clears with blinking
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Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
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Eye redness
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An inability to produce tears when crying
Environmental factors such as windy or stormy weather, polluted and smoky environments, and the use of air conditioning or central heating systems can exacerbate these symptoms. Closing your eyes and resting them often helps alleviate the discomfort.
Diagnosing Dry Eye Syndrome
If you suspect you are suffering from Dry Eye Syndrome, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist (eye doctor). They can confirm the diagnosis through a comprehensive eye exam and specific tests, including:
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The Schirmer Test: To measure tear production volume.
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Tear Osmolarity/Sampling: To analyze the composition of your tears.
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Staining Tests: Using special dyes to evaluate the surface of the eye for dry spots or damage.