Dry Eyes

Factors Contributing to Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES), or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Several factors contribute to this condition:

1. Ageing-Related Factors

  • Natural decrease in tear production with age

  • Post-menopausal hormonal changes in women

  • Reduced blink rate in elderly individuals

2. Environmental Factors

  • Dry or windy climates

  • Air conditioning and heating systems

  • High-altitude environments

  • Prolonged screen time causes reduced blinking

  • Exposure to smoke or pollution

3. Medical & Lifestyle Factors

  • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)

  • Medications (e.g., antihistamines, antidepressants, beta-blockers, diuretics)

  • Contact lens use

  • LASIK or cataract surgery (temporary dry eye post-surgery)

  • Vitamin A deficiency

  • Dehydration (low water intake)

Current Treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome

1. Artificial Tears & Lubricants

  • Over-the-counter artificial tear drops

  • Gel-based eye drops for prolonged moisture

  • Ointments (for severe cases, used at night)

2. Prescription Medications

  • Cyclosporine (Restasis®) – Increases tear production

  • Lifitegrast (Xiidra®) – Reduces inflammation

  • Corticosteroid eye drops – Short-term relief for severe cases

  • Autologous serum eye drops – Made from the patient’s blood plasma

3. Punctal Plugs (Tear Conservation)

  • Small devices inserted into the tear ducts to reduce tear drainage, keeping eyes moist longer

4. LipiFlow & Thermal Pulsation Therapy

  • Uses heat and massage to unclog meibomian glands (which produce the oily layer of tears)

5. Lifestyle & Home Remedies

  • Blink more frequently when using screens

  • Increase humidity in indoor environments

  • Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors

  • Use omega-3 supplements (helps tear film stability)

  • Hydration & diet improvements

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