Dry Eye Syndrome
DEFINITION OF DRY EYE SYNDROME
Dry Eye Syndrome (DES), also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, is a common condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the quality of tears is poor, leading to dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Prolonged screen time, pollution, aging, and nutritional deficiencies contribute to tear film instability, causing redness, blurred vision, and eye fatigue.
RISK FACTORS OF DRY EYE SYNDROME
- Aging
- Air Pollution & UV Exposure
- Hormonal Changes
- Nutritional Deficiencies
- Prolonged Screen Time
SYMPTOMS
The dry or uneven tear film causes friction on the cornea and conjunctiva
Mild to intense burning, especially after reading, screen time, or exposure to wind or air conditioning
Subjective feeling of dryness, even if the eyes appear moist
Often worsens throughout the day or in dry environments (airplanes, heated rooms)
Chronic irritation and inflammation of the ocular surface
Why it’s misleading: The eyes may actually produce too many reflex tears in response to dryness
Tears lack proper composition, so they don’t lubricate effectively
TREATMENT TYPES
Blink more consciously, especially during screen use
Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
Use a humidifier in dry rooms
Avoid direct air conditioning, fans, or wind on your face
Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to reduce tear evaporation
Stay hydrated (drink plenty of water)
Over-the-counter, preservative-free artificial tears for frequent use
Use 3–6 times per day, or as needed
Gel drops or ointments for nighttime use
Avoid drops with vasoconstrictors (like “get-the-red-out” drops), which can worsen symptoms over time.
Warm compresses to loosen oil gland secretions (10 minutes, 1–2x daily)
Clean lash line with lid wipes or diluted baby shampoo
Helps manage blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which often contribute to dry eye
Cyclosporine (Restasis) – long-term use improves tear production
Lifitegrast (Xiidra) – targets inflammation and discomfort
Corticosteroid drops (short-term use only for flares)
Tiny, biocompatible plugs inserted into the tear drainage ducts (puncta)
Helps retain natural and artificial tears on the eye surface
Temporary or permanent options available
Especially helpful in moderate to severe dry eye
FAQS
Dry Eye Syndrome is a condition where your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, irritation, inflammation, and sometimes blurry vision. It can affect one or both eyes and range from mild to severe.
Aging (especially over 50)
Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause)
Long screen time (reduced blinking)
Medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, birth control)
Contact lens use
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome)
Environmental factors (wind, AC, dry air)
Grittiness or sandy sensation
Burning or stinging
Redness
Excessive tearing (paradoxical)
Blurred or fluctuating vision
Sensitivity to light
Eye fatigue
Difficulty wearing contact lenses
While many cases are mild, chronic or untreated dry eye can lead to:
Corneal damage or ulcers
Increased risk of eye infections
Severe discomfort and reduced quality of life
Early treatment helps prevent complications.
Dry eye is usually chronic, but symptoms can be well-managed with proper care. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include:
Artificial tears
Prescription drops
Eyelid hygiene
Punctal plugs
Lifestyle and diet changes
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!
Contact Luxor Eye Institute today to schedule your consultation. Our skilled team is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal eye health and vision goals with personalized care and exceptional expertise.