Dry eye syndrome is basically a condition in which the tear film becomes unbalanced. The tear film is the layer that gives the eye clear vision, eye comfort, and eye protection. A disruption in the tear film causes the eye surface to be deprived of moisture, become irritated, and may be even damaged and inflamed over time. DES is possible at any age, though, it is mainly a problem of old people.
Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome:
1. Insufficient Tear Production
Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is when the lacrimal glands are insufficiently producing tears, resulting in discomfort and the potential for the eye’s surface to be harmed. The reasons that most of the time come behind the condition are aging and subsequent hormonal changes, mainly in women during menopause or pregnancy as tear secretion is lowered with aging. Diseases of the immune system like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren’s syndrome, can mislead the immune system to attack the glands that produce tears. In addition to that, lack of vitamin A which is primarily the vitamin responsible for holding the tears can make the symptoms of dry eye more severe.
2. Increased Tear Evaporation
For a number of reasons, tears could evaporate too soon. Environmental factors that lead to an increase in tear evaporation may enhance the symptoms of dry eye, for example, a blowing, dry, or air-conditioned atmosphere. An example of the eyelid problem is lagophthalmos, a condition in which the eyelids are not fully closed during sleep. The reason for faster evaporation is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), which hampers oil production to the required level for tear stability. A prolonged contact lens wearing can also harm the natural tear film, which results in discomfort and dryness. Together, these elements make dry eye condition worse.
3. Other Contributing Factors
One of the reasons for digital eye strain is the reduction in the number of blinks that is caused by overuse of screens. Smoking contributes to the weakening of the tear film, hence the eyes become more difficult to moisturize. Extended or improper contact lens wearing can also harm the tear film and cause the same symptoms as eye discomfort and dryness. Dry eye condition is greatly influenced by these factors.
Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome:
Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) can be controlled moderately and severely. They include the feeling of dry eyes, burning, stinging, and a gritty sensation. When blood vessels become larger due to irritation, redness is the result. A damaged tear film is the main cause of blurred vision that happens usually after long periods of reading or watching a screen. People often suffer from light sensitivity which makes them more vulnerable to glare. It is also possible that tearing becomes very intensive as the body adjusts to dryness. Besides that, eye tiredness can become very rapid, especially if you are concentrating on activities such as reading or prolonged use of technology.
Diagnosing Dry Eye Syndrome:
Dry eye syndrome can only be identified through a thorough eye examination by a specialist eye doctor or an eye care professional. Schirmer’s test is one of the tests which assesses tear production by placing a strip in the lower eyelid. Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) assesses tear stability by measuring the time when the tear film is most unstable after blinking. In the case of ocular surface staining, the usage of dyes is implied to point out the areas of the cornea and conjunctiva that are damaged and thus help the doctor to evaluate the severity of DES. In contrast, meibography involves pictures for the measurement of the functionality of the meibomian gland.
Treatment Options for Dry Eye Syndrome:
Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops
If it is only a minor dry eye symptom then the use of artificial tears bought as an over-the-counter product may be the solution. Any of a wide variety of drops can be selected, including those free of preservatives for people with sensitive eyes.
Medications
Lifitegrast (Xiidra) and cyclosporine A (Restasis) are two methods which aim at increasing tear production and lessening the irritation of the red eye. In case of a very severe inflammatory condition, the doctor may advise the application of corticosteroid eye drops, but only for a short duration because of the risk of side effects.
Punctal Plugs
In more serious situations, drainage may be blocked by inserting punctal plugs into the tear ducts. This keeps moisture on the surface of the eye for extended periods of time.
Warm Compresses and Lid Hygiene
In Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), warm compresses may help by reducing oil buildup in the glands, thus the quality of the tear film is improved. Obstructions to the glands can also be lightened by massage and the use of good eyelid hygiene.
Surgical Interventions
Surgical methods include LipiFlow, a thermal pulsation therapy for MGD, or punctal occlusion may be suggested in severe instances. Usually, they are employed when alternative therapies don’t work.
Lifestyle Changes
By reducing the dry air, humidifiers are helpful in keeping the eyes moist. The 20-20-20 rule, which is a way of giving a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away, is also a means through which eye strain can be lessened. Drinking enough water is also good for the tears to be healthy.
Dry Eye Syndrome Market
The worldwide dry eye syndrome (DES) market is growing big time due to the abovementioned factors like aging population, environmental pollution, and increase of screen time. Market growth is expected to be further propelled by the introduction of new devices and prescription therapies. Dry eye syndrome is reported to be the most common condition affecting about 75% of people over 65, and is mainly referred to as a disease of elderly women, as per the Schepens Eye Research Institute (SERI).
According to Pristine Market Insights,Dry Eye Syndrome is a complex disorder with a variety of causes, including age-related changes, environmental variables, and medical disorders. Although its symptoms can be crippling, most people can control and lessen them with the correct care and lifestyle changes. Dry eye syndrome doesn’t have to negatively impact one’s quality of life if the proper treatment plan is implemented.
Author Bio:
Teja Kurane is a dedicated research analyst specializing in healthcare studies. With a keen interest in ophthalmology and eye health, Teja focuses on analyzing emerging trends, treatments, and innovations to promote better understanding and management of conditions like dry eye syndrome.