What are Dry Eyes?

Just as the name suggests, this condition results when not enough tears are produced to protect the eyes while awake. When you cry, your eyes make reflex tears. Each time you blink, another kind of tears, called lubricating tears is spread across the surface of the eyes. With dry eyes, there is a deficiency of lubricating tears. This is a chronic condition and even if controlled may not resolve entirely.

What are the symptoms?

Usually symptoms consist of irritated and possibly red eyes. Sandiness, grittiness, foreign body sensation, burning, stinging, and eye fatigue are some common complaints. Strangely enough, one common symptom is watering of the eyes (especially in windy situations), which occurs when the irritation from the underlying dryness causes a gush of tears from the main tear-producing gland. This does not relieve the dryness because the eyes water with reflex tears, not lubricating tears. In very severe dry eye situations, the surface of the eye may even be damaged, causing decreased vision.

Why do I Have Dry Eyes?

There are many causes for dry eyes. However, in most patients with the condition, no obvious reason is found. The tearing mechanism is quite complex. Tears are a combination of several types of secretion from different types of glands. The glands which form the tears to protect and lubricate the eye are not the same ones which cause tearing during time of emotion. It is known that our tear production decreases with age. This is the most common reason. Certain medical conditions, injuries, and drugs may cause eyes to become dry. Certain eyelid conditions like Blepharitis - Sticky and Crusty Eyelids can make dry eye symptoms worse. Individuals who have had Laser Vision Correction may experience some dryness. Contact lenses may make symptoms worse. Environmental conditions, such as wind, smoke, dust, allergies and low humidity or dry weather can exacerbate symptoms.

How is this diagnosed?

If your symptoms are relieved by lubricating the eyes, you're most likely having a dry eye condition. Dry eyes can also be diagnosed during an eye exam, when you doctor can examine the tear film and measure the amount of tears you eyes produce.

What is the treatment?

The mainstay of treatment for dry eyes, regardless of the cause, is the use of lubricants for the eye. Artificial tears are specially formulated drops which are designed to act much as our own tears do. They are available over the counter in local pharmacies and may be used as often as desired. Sometimes they are required as much as every hour or two. Artificial tears are not the same as eye drops that relieve redness or itching. If these do not control the symptoms, lubricating gel drops or ointments may be used. Ointments are typically only used at bedtime because they can blur the vision. If lubricants are not sufficient, other treatments may be considered.

Other tips for comfort include:

• Use a humidifier to make the air moist inside heated rooms.
• Wear wraparound glasses when you're outside.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses or eye makeup.
• Avoid smoke, wind, hair dryers, air conditioners, and aerosols.

Which Artificial Tears Should I Use?

Like body lotions, there are many brands of lubricating teardrops are available in any pharmacy, all without a prescription. Artificial tears are not the same as eye drops that relieve redness or itching. Some come in bottles, while others come in individual dispensers that are preservative free (good for patients who may be sensitive or allergic to preservatives). You can experiment with several brands to find the one that suits you best. Remember to use them frequently - they cannot be used too often.