Dr Olivia Read sees many patients suffering from dry eye every month. While this is a complex condition with a wide range of possible causes, there are a number of successful treatment options available. Dr Read advises anyone suffering from dry eye symptoms to see an ophthalmologist to help find relief.
What is dry eye disease?
Your eye produces tears to keep the eye tissue healthy and moist. When the production of tears, and the tear film on the eye is affected, the condition is known as dry eye.
We all have a tear film over the surface of our eyes. This film is made up of three different layers (oil, water and mucus).
- The outer layer (oil): This oil is secreted by the meibomian glands and helps to slow down the evaporation of tears.
- The middle layer (water): Your lacrimal glands secrete this watery layer to keep your eye clean and wash away any foreign particles.
- The inner layer (mucus): Without this mucus layer, tears would not stick to the surface of your eye. It ensures the tear film is spread evenly across the eye’s surface and that the eye stays lubricated and moist.
What are the symptoms of dry eye disease?
Symptoms of dry eye disease include increased blinking, mucus discharge and a feeling of general discomfort in the eye. Eyes can be red, itchy, feel gritty, and may even sting. Many patients also experience excessive tearing and blurred vision.
People who suffer from dry eye disease might feel like they aren’t able to keep their eyes open for long. They find it uncomfortable to watch TV or read.
What causes dry eye disease?
There are a wide range of causes of dry eye disease – from environmental factors to medication and certain health concerns.
Here are some of the causes of dry eye disease:
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- Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus affect the lacrimal gland. This affects the production of tears, and is sometimes known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
- Diabetes, herpes zoster, long-term wearing of contact lenses, and corneal refractive surgery can result in reduced tear production.
- Blepharitis or dysfunctional meibomian glands decrease the production of the lipid layer (oil) that makes up the tear film, resulting in increased tear evaporation.
- Hormones can also influence dry eye. Pregnant women, and women who are menstruating may experience dry eye symptoms.
- Medication may cause eyes to feel dry
- Diuretics for high blood pressure
- Beta-blockers for high blood pressure
- Antihistamines for allergies
- Sleeping pills
- Anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants
- Analgesics
- A dry, windy climate, or working in an air-conditioned environment can also affect the moisture and lubrication of the eye.
- People who spend a lot of time working behind a computer are also more susceptible to dry eye.
How is dry eye disease treated?
Depending on the cause and severity of the condition, your ophthalmologist will assess your eyes and advise on a treatment plan.
Some of the options for treating dry eye disease include:
- Over-the-counter eyedrops/artificial tears
- Lubricating gel or ointment
- Applying a warm compress to your eyelids in the morning and evening, and cleaning your lids and lashes with a gentle cleanser such as Naviblef or Johnson & Johnson’s baby shampoo.
- Punctal Plugs are tiny devices made of collagen or silicone. Your ophthalmologist can implant them into your tear drainage ducts to block them, and ultimately retain your tears.
- If you live or work in a very dry environment, you can use a humidifier to add moisture to dry air.
- Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can also improve dry eye symptoms. These are found in seafood such as salmon, sardines and anchovies. You can also get over-the-counter supplements.
- In severe cases of dry eye, medication (Restasis) and steroid eyedrops may be prescribed. However, long term use of steroid drops is NOT recommended as it can have negative side-effects including glaucoma.
