Dry eye disease

dry eye disease

Dry eye disease is a common condition where your eyes do not make enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears normally keep the front of the eye smooth, clear, and comfortable, so when they are poor quality or low in quantity your eyes can feel gritty, burning, or tired. People with dry eyes often notice fluctuating or blurry vision, sensitivity to light, redness, and a feeling like there is something in the eye. Age, hormones, certain medicines, long periods of screen use, dry environments, and problems with the eyelids or oil glands can all cause or worsen it. Some overall health conditions, like autoimmune diseases, also increase the chance of developing dry eye. Diagnosis is based on the symptoms plus simple office tests that measure tear quantity and quality and examine the eye surface. Treatment ranges from lifestyle changes and over-the-counter lubricating drops to prescription anti-inflammatory medicines, treatments for the eyelid oil glands, and tiny plugs that slow tear drainage. Many people improve with a combination of therapies tailored to the cause and severity of their condition. Left untreated, chronic dryness can reduce quality of life by making reading, driving, or wearing contact lenses uncomfortable, but with the right care most people can get significant relief and protect their vision.