Dry eye disease occurs when the tears are insufficient or of poor quality, leading to discomfort and sometimes fluctuating vision. It is a very common cause of eye irritation.
Symptoms and causes
Dry eye can result from reduced tear production, increased evaporation, or both.
- Burning, grittiness, or a feeling of sand in the eyes
- Redness, watery eyes, and blurred vision that improves with blinking
- Worsening with wind, air conditioning, or prolonged screen use
- Linked to age, hormonal changes, autoimmune disease, and certain medications
Management
Treatment is usually stepwise and tailored to severity. Simple measures often bring significant relief.
- Regular use of preservative-free lubricating drops and gels
- Warm compresses and lid hygiene for meibomian gland dysfunction
- Environmental changes, omega-3 supplements, or prescription anti-inflammatory drops in more severe cases
- Advanced options like punctal plugs, in-office gland treatments, or scleral lenses when needed
