Dry Eye Syndrome is a common eye condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping the eyes lubricated, nourished, and protected from irritants. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to discomfort, blurred vision, and even long-term damage to the eye surface.
Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
Several factors can contribute to dry eye, including:
- Ageing: Tear production naturally decreases with age, particularly after age 50.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to smoke, wind, and dry climates can accelerate tear evaporation.
- Screen time: Staring at digital screens reduces blink rate, leading to dryness.
- Medical conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome can cause dry eyes.
- Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and birth control pills may reduce tear production.
- Contact lenses and eye surgery: Prolonged lens wear or LASIK can temporarily affect tear film balance.
Common Symptoms
– Persistent dryness or grittiness in the eyes
– Burning, itching, or stinging sensations
– Blurred vision, especially after long screen use
– Redness or irritation
– Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
– Watery eyes (a reflex to dryness)
Diagnosis
An optometrist diagnoses dry eye using a combination of tests, such as:
– Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT): Measures how quickly tears evaporate.
– Schirmer Test: Assesses tear production rate.
– Ocular surface staining: Uses dyes to evaluate eye surface damage.
Treatment and Management
Treatment focuses on restoring tear balance and relieving discomfort:
– Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops
– Warm compresses and eyelid hygiene
– Prescription medications like cyclosporine
– Omega-3 supplements for tear quality improvement
– Humidifiers to add moisture to indoor air
– Punctal plugs to reduce tear drainage
Prevention Tips
– Blink regularly during screen time
– Stay hydrated
– Avoid direct exposure to air conditioning or fans
– Use sunglasses outdoors
– Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
Conclusion
Dry Eye Syndrome can affect anyone, but with proper management, most people find lasting relief. If you experience ongoing dryness or discomfort, consult an eye specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized care plan.
Stay tuned for more information on dry eye syndrome in our next post.
For all eye-related concerns, visit us at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.
TREVEC CARES!!!
I sincerely appreciate Trevec Clinic for their commendable efforts in sensitising the public on the causes and management of dry eyes. Your educational initiatives have greatly increased awareness of this often overlooked condition, empowering many individuals to seek timely care and adopt healthier eye practices.
Your commitment to eye health and preventive care reflects true professionalism and compassion. I applaud your dedication to promoting better vision and overall ocular wellbeing.
Thank you for being a driving force in the fight against avoidable eye discomfort and vision challenges.
Dr Nwagbara Ugochi
Many people are suffering from dry eyes,but, failed to discover it.
Thanks so much for this awareness, pls what causes teary eyes and how can one deal with it?
Thank you so much, Dr. Nwagbara, for your kind words and thoughtful feedback. We truly appreciate your recognition and encouragement. At TREVEC, our goal is to promote greater awareness and proactive care for eye health, and it’s heartening to know that our efforts are making a positive impact. Together, we can make a lasting difference in reducing avoidable eye discomfort and preserving healthy vision for all.
Warm regards,
The TREVEC Team
You’re right, many people experience dry eye symptoms without realizing it. That’s why creating awareness is so important. Early recognition and proper management can make a big difference in comfort and long-term eye health. Thank you for highlighting this important point.
You’re most welcome, and thank you for your thoughtful question
Teary eyes can have several internal or external causes – including dry eyes, allergies, infections, exposure to wind and screen glare etc.
To manage it, it’s best to:
Avoid irritants like smoke or strong wind
Take regular breaks from screens
Use lubricating eye drops if dryness is the cause
Seek professional evaluation to identify the underlying reason
If the tearing persists or is accompanied by discomfort, we recommend you visit us at Treetop Vision Eye Centre (TREVEC) for proper assessment and treatment.