Dry eye disease is a common condition where the tear film is unstable or insufficient to keep the eye surface comfortable and healthy. It can affect quality of life and interfere with tasks such as reading or screen work.
Types of Dry Eye
Dry eye is broadly divided into aqueous-deficient (reduced tear production) and evaporative (excessive tear evaporation, often from meibomian gland dysfunction). Many patients have a mixture of both.
- Symptoms include burning, grittiness, and fluctuating vision
- Worse in windy, air-conditioned, or low-humidity environments
- Often associated with blepharitis or systemic conditions
Diagnosis
Assessment includes questionnaires, slit-lamp examination of the tear film and lids, and tests such as tear break-up time and staining. Further explanation is provided in the Blue Fin Vision® article what is dry eye syndrome?.
Management Overview
Management is tailored to the underlying cause and may involve lubricants, lid hygiene, anti-inflammatory treatment, and environmental changes.
