Tears do not only express sad emotions, but are essential to maintain healthy eyes. When there is not enough tear production, or when the components of the tears are not normal, discomfort in the eyes can occur. This can include a prickling sensation, feeling of a foreign substance in the eyes, a burning sensation, or production of sticky sleep. Sometimes, patients complain of a feeling of drying out of the eyes.

These uncomfortable sensations are associated with long hours of computer use, and are worsened with exposure to wind or cigarette smoke. Dry eye syndrome refers to insufficient production of tears, or abnormal tear components.

Causes of dry eye syndrome

The amount of tears produced as we age decreases. Although dry eye syndrome can occur at any age in both men and women, it is more prevalent in post-menopausal women. It can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other connective tissue diseases. Sjogren syndrome is another connective tissue disease, which is associated with dry eye syndrome and dry mouth. Some medications can also cause dry eye syndrome as a side effect. These include psychoactive drugs, such as antidepressants, acne treatment medicines, and estrogen supplements used for menopause.

Treatment

1. Medication

Artificial tears are the most basic method of treatment. Many types are currently available on the market so it is important that you use the product that best suits you. The use will vary depending on the severity of your condition. Generally, it is advised that you use the artificial tears 6-8 times a day. You can use topical ointments containing artificial tear components first thing in the morning, or before going to bed. They can blur your vision for a while, so it is advised that you use the minimum amount needed, or avoid use during the day.

If your symptoms are severe, it may be necessary to use anti-inflammatory agents to treat the chronic inflammation of the cornea, conjunctiva, and the surface of the eyeball. Topical agents with minimal side effects, such as low-concentration cyclosporine, are often used.

2. Environmental treatment

Increasing the environmental humidity can help control your symptoms. This can be achieved by using a humidifier, or lowering the room temperature. It may also help to have some water in a dish next to you. You should avoid dyeing your hair, using hair driers and sprays, as well as windy days and cigarette smoke, as these can all worsen your symptoms. Long hours of computer use can cause video device terminal syndrome, which can also cause dryness in the eyes. It is helpful to take breaks frequently or deliberately blink your eyes.

3. Surgical treatment

This treatment involves blocking the tear duct, in order to let the tears stay in the eyes for a longer time. This procedure is usually done temporarily, to see if it is effective. If it is, electrocautery can be done on the lachrymal punctum, or a silicone plug can be inserted permanently.

Dry eye syndrome can cause blurry vision and severe foreign-body sensation in the eyes. Insufficient tears in the eyes can cause inflammation or damage to the cornea due to poor lubrication. In severe cases, it can cause significant damage to the eyes so it is important that you have your eyes checked by an ophthalmologist to receive the right treatment. 

By Chung Eui-sang

The author is a doctor at the Department of Ophthalmology at Samsung Medical Center and a professor of Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine. ―Ed.