Dry Eye Syndrome affects more than 100 million people around the world. However, many people are not aware that they are suffering from it. People go to ophthalmologists complaining of decreased vision, cataract or other eye-related infections and are surprised to know that they have dry eye syndrome. Dr GVSV Prasad, consultant ophthalmologist at Care Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad briefs Sameera Jonnalagadda about the possible signs and causes of the ailment.
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What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is commonly found in humans and in some animals. The patient’s eyes dry out and become inflamed. Our eyes produce tears all the time, not just when we cry or experience a sudden rush of emotion or after yawning. Healthy eyes are covered with a fluid all the time, known as a tear film, which is designed to remain stable between each blink. A stable tear film prevents the eyes from becoming dry, and keeps the eyes clear, and with comfortable vision. If the tear glands produce a lower quantity of tears, the tear film can become destabilised. The film can break down quickly, creating dry spots on the surface of the eyes.
What is the age group that is usually at the risk?
Dry eye syndrome can occur at any age and in people who are otherwise healthy. It is more common with older age when the individual produces fewer tears. In some parts of the world, where malnutrition results in a Vitamin A deficiency, the syndrome is much more common.
What are the signs and symptoms?
A symptom is something the patient feels and reports, while a sign is something other people, including a doctor or nurse, may detect. For example, pain may be a symptom while a rash may be a sign.
What are the causes?
There are more to our tears than simply water. Tears are made of water, fatty oils, protein, electrolytes, substances to fight off bacteria, and growth factors. Tears are made of a mixture that helps keep the surface of our eyes smooth and clear. Without tears we cannot see properly. In some cases dry eyes are the result of an imbalance in the tear mixture, while in others not enough tears are produced for the requirements of good eye health. Other causes of dry eye syndrome include eyelid problems, drugs such as birth control and sleeping pills, and environmental factors such as high altitude and dry climate.
How is it diagnosed?
Most general practitioners can diagnose dry eye syndrome from signs, asking the patient about symptoms and looking at the patient’s medical history. The GP will need to know what medications the patient is currently taking, as well as information on their occupation and personal circumstances. The GP may refer the patient to an optometrist; a health care professional who is licensed to provide primary eye care services. With the aid of special devices the optometrist will be able to diagnose dry eye syndrome, as well as other conditions and possible complications, and offer treatment advice.