CAUSES of Dry Eye Disease
Several factors can contribute to dry eye disease:
Age: Dry eyes become more common as we get older, with hormonal changes often playing a role.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to dry, windy, or smoky conditions can lead to evaporation of tears.
Medical Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders, can increase the risk of dry eyes.
Medications: Some medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
Screen Time: Prolonged screen time can lead to reduced blinking and increased evaporation of tears, contributing to dryness.
TYPES of Dry Eye Disease
Aqueous Deficiency DED
Occurs when the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough tear fluid.
This can result from several factors, including autoimmune diseases, hormonal changes, and age-related decline in tear production.
Common Causes: Sjogren's Syndrome, Lacrimal Gland Dysfunction due to aging, surgery, or radiation and medications like antihistamines, beta-blockers, and diuretics
Prevalence: Accounts for approximately 10% of all dry eye cases
Evaporative DED
Characterized by rapid evaporation of tears, often due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
Common Causes: Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), Blepharitis, and environmental factors like wind, dry climates, and prolonged screen use
Prevalence: Accounts for approximately 86% of all dry eye cases
Mixed DED
Mixed Dry Eye is a combination of aqueous deficient and evaporative DED where patients experience both inadequate tear production and increased tear evaporation.
Prevalence: Accounts for 26% of DED, overlapping with both other types
DEFINITION of Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease, also known as dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common and often uncomfortable eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes don't produce enough quality tears to keep them lubricated and comfortable. This can lead to various symptoms, including irritation, redness, and blurred vision. By understanding the causes and symptoms and applying appropriate management strategies, you can relieve discomfort and improve the health of your eyes.
SYMPTOMS of Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease can manifest in various ways:
Stinging or Burning Sensation: Many people with dry eyes report a persistent stinging or burning sensation.
Redness: Eyes may appear bloodshot due to irritation.
Blurry Vision: Vision can become temporarily blurred due to unstable tear film.
Sensitivity to Light: Dry eyes can make your eyes more sensitive to light.
Stringy Mucus: You might notice stringy mucus in or around your eyes.
PREVENTION of Dry Eye Disease
Preventing dry eye disease can be challenging, but some lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk:
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Take regular breaks when using screens.
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Wear wrap-around sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and dust.
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Stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
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Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, which can exacerbate dry eyes.
We can provide a detailed assessment to discuss your needs and what options would be most suitable for you.
MANAGEMENT of Dry Eye Disease
Managing dry eye disease often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, home remedies, and medical treatments. Here's what you can do:
Lifestyle and environmental changes
Adding foods rich in omega-3s, like salmon or flaxseeds, to your diet can improve tear quality. In addition, using a humidifier at home or work can maintain a more humid environment, reducing evaporation.
Warm Compress and Lid Hygiene
Applying a warm compress to your closed eyelids can help unblock oil glands, whereas cleaning your eyelids with a damp cotton bud can improve tear distribution.
Over the counter Medications
Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide relief by supplementing your natural tears.
Prescription Medications
In more severe cases, prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops or medications to stimulate tear production can help.
Procedures
Minimally-invasive techniques that address the underlying pathology of DED. Examples include Intense Regulated Pulsed Light (IRPL) or meibomian gland expression.
