Dry Eyes
Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when the naturally occurring tears are unable to provide adequate lubrication for the eyes. This inability is the result of either insufficient tear production or poor quality tears that don’t allow the tears to remain long enough to do their job. The tears journey starts in the lacrimal gland and is then combined with layers from the meibomian glands within the lids and mucous glands on the eye surface. This tear film coats the eye and is then drained through the lacrimal punch into the nose.
Symptoms of dry eyes include burning, itching, foreign body sensation, and tearing. These uncomfortable feelings are the result of the sensitive external eye surface responding to injury. There are many causes of dry eyes including hormonal changes, medications, and inflammatory conditions to name a few. These same symptoms may vary throughout the day or worsen during certain times of the year. External influences such as seasonal allergies and environmental factors play a role in chronic dry eye conditions.
Treatments for dry eyes center on making patients more comfortable. These strategies aim to either increase the quality of tears or allow the tears to remain in the eye longer. The simplest treatment generally starts with artificial tears to replace the dysfunctional tears and progresses through a variety of treatments such as punctual plugs, lid hygiene, and lid massage, to laser treatments and surgical interventions.