Dry eye syndrome – the most effective ways to get rid of the problem

Dry eye syndrome, commonly known as dry eye, is one of the diseases that most often prompts you to visit an ophthalmologist’s office. Find out how dry eye syndrome manifests itself and how to effectively overcome persistent ailments.

What is dry eye syndrome? Why is it being created?

Until recently, Dry Eye Syndrome was thought to be caused solely by a deficiency in tears, but it is now known that the condition is a multi-factorial disease. Dry eye syndrome can be caused not only by reduced tear production, but also by a disturbance in tear composition or by a tear film remaining too short on the surface of the eye.

The tear film can be compared to a thin coating that protects our eyes from drying out and from many harmful factors. Basically, we divide it into three parts – the water layer (produced by the lacrimal glands, containing bactericidal ingredients), the water-absorbing mucus layer (absorbs micro-injuries, “captures” environmental pollution) and the fat layer (protects the water layer from drying out too quickly). Any disturbance in any of these layers can lead to dry eye syndrome. [1]

Dry eye syndrome may develop secondary to inflammatory disease (e.g. vascular disease, allergic disease), environmental conditions (e.g. allergens, cigarette smoke, dry climate, air conditioning), hormonal imbalance (e.g. perimenopausal women using hormone replacement therapy) and wearing contact lenses. – it is believed that up to 50 percent. Contact lens wearers have symptoms of ZSO. [2]

Dry eye symptoms can also be a symptom of systemic disease – diabetes, thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. [3] All diseases of the eyelids – post-traumatic changes, regurgitation or postoperative deformity also predispose to the development of “dry eye”. [4] It is also not uncommon that reduced tear production, and consequently ZSO, may be a side effect of some medications – both those taken orally and in the form of drops. These are:

1. Antihistamines
2. Antiarrhythmic drugs 
3. Oral contraceptive preparations
4. Psychotropic drugs (e.g. chlorpromazine)
5. Vasoconstrictors (e.g. ephedrine, pseudoephedrine) 
6. Medicines to treat high blood pressure (e.g. beta-blockers)
7. Retinoids used in the treatment of acne 
8. Antidepressants [5] 

What are the symptoms of dry eye syndrome?

The symptoms of dry eye syndrome can be very different and, importantly, very variable even in one person. In people with dry eye syndrome, the following is observed:

1. Reddening
2. A burning sensation, “sand under the eyelids”
3. Presence of white discharge sticking the eyelids together (especially in the morning) 
4. Itching of the edges of the eyelids 
5. Pain in the back of the eye
6. Poor night vision
7. Blinking too often 
8. Hypersensitivity to light
9. Watering eyes, especially outdoors, in air vents, for example in a car 
10. Blurred vision 
11. Difficulty wearing contact lenses [6]

The most effective treatments for dry eye syndrome

As Dry Eye Syndrome can be associated with a variety of causes, it is important that a comprehensive evaluation is performed by a specialist prior to treatment. It is necessary to collect a detailed history, paying particular attention to systemic diseases – incl. diabetes, thyroid disease or autoimmune diseases, and wearing contact lenses. For more precise diagnosis, the doctor may perform a slit lamp examination (which allows to find out, for example, conjunctival irritation) and the Schirmer’s test, which allows to determine the amount of tears secreted. [7]

In the treatment of dry eye syndrome, there are two main goals – to reduce inflammation and to effectively moisturize the surface of the eye. The basis for alleviating symptoms are drops such as Hyal-Drop® multi, which naturally ensure proper hydration, soothing and refreshing of the eyes. The product will also work well in the states of tear deficiency caused by long-term use of a computer or staying in air-conditioned rooms. Importantly, Hyal-Drop® multi drops can be used to moisturize and moisten soft and hard contact lenses during wear, which significantly improves the comfort of their use throughout the day.

Treating dry eye syndrome is also introducing healthy habits into your daily life for which your eyes will thank you. A common cause of dry eyes is environmental factors – avoid cigarette smoke, and when it’s windy outside – use proper glasses with certified UV filters. You may also find it helpful to have a humidifier and home air purifier.

What’s more, studies have shown that people tend to blink much less than usual when watching TV, using a smartphone or computer. Try to blink more often to better moisturize your eyes, and be sure to take short breaks to let your eyes regain some of the moisture. It’s a good habit to look away from the screen at least every 20 minutes and look at anything at least six meters from your eyes for at least 20 seconds.