What is the dry eye syndrome?
Dry eyes occurs when the quantity and/or quality of an individual’s tears are not able to provide adequate lubrication of the surface of the eye. The chances of developing dry eye syndrome increase as an individual gets older, while women are more prone to the condition than men.
Dry eye syndrome appears when:
- Normal tear production decreases
- Tear evaporation increases
- Tear composition is disturbed
The factors affecting the tear film and may cause dry eyes are the following:
- Being on medications like: antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, contraceptives, hormone therapy for relief of menopausal symptoms, diuretics, hypnotics, anti-anxiety, Parkinson disease, high blood pressure, beta-blockers, steroids, as well as recreational drugs (e.g. cocaine).
- Tear production tends to diminish with ageing. Dry eye syndrome is much more common in individuals over 50 years of age.
- Rosacea (inflammatory skin condition) and blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) disrupt the function of specific tarsal (Meiobomian) glands.
- Autoimmune diseases, such as the Sjögren syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases like thyroid gland disorder, diabetes, herpes zoster, as well as Vitamin A deficiency, are also linked to dry eyes.
- The dry eye syndrome is more common in women, due the hormonal changes they experience during pregnancy, lactation and prior to or following menopause. Women are also more prone to autoimmune diseases.
- When an individual is exposed to a dry or windy environment, or burdened with smoke, tear evaporation is accelerated.
- Seasonal allergies contribute to the emergence of dry eyes.
- Working in front of computer screens results is inadequate blinking, which is necessary for the proper lubrication of the eyes.
- Chronic and improper use of contact lenses.
- Refractive eye surgery can cause dry eye symptoms.
Consult your ophthalmologist or optometrist for any queries or before taking any medication.