WHAT IS DRY EYE?

Dry eye (also called Dry Eye Disease or Ocular Surface Disease) is a common condition where your eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. Healthy tears keep the eye surface moist, smooth, and comfortable. When tear quality or quantity is affected, your eyes can feel irritated and vision may fluctuate.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DRY EYE?

People with dry eye may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
• Grittiness or feeling like something is stuck in the eye
• Redness and irritation
• Watery eyes (a reflex response to dryness)
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye fatigue, especially after screen use or reading

Symptoms can worsen in air‑conditioned rooms, during long screen hours, while driving, or in windy/dusty environments.

YOU COULD BE AT RISK OF DRY EYE IF YOU HAVE:

• Age above 40 years
• Long screen time (mobile/laptop/TV)
• Contact lens use
• Autoimmune diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis or thyroid disorders
• Hormonal changes, especially in women
• History of eye surgery (e.g., LASIK, cataract surgery)
• Use of certain medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, or prolonged steroid use
• Living or working in dry, windy, or air‑conditioned environments

HOW IS DRY EYE TREATED?

Dry eye treatment depends on its cause and severity. Your doctor may recommend:

1. Lubricating Eye Drops (Artificial Tears)

Used regularly to keep the eyes moist. Preservative‑free options are gentler on the eye surface.

2. Gel or Ointment Formulations

Offer longer relief, especially at night.

3. Warm Compresses & Eyelid Hygiene

Useful when blocked oil glands (Meibomian gland dysfunction) contribute to dryness.

4. Treating Underlying Causes

Allergies, eyelid inflammation, or systemic diseases may require additional therapy.

5. Prescription Medications

To reduce inflammation and improve tear quality.

6. In‑clinic Procedures

Such as punctal plugs, lid gland treatments, or advanced dry-eye therapies if required.

The goal is to improve tear quality and quantity, relieve symptoms, and protect the eye surface.

CAN DRY EYE BE PREVENTED AND HOW?

While dry eye cannot always be fully prevented, you can significantly reduce symptoms by following healthy eye habits:

• Follow the 20‑20‑20 rule during screen use (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
• Blink more often, especially when using digital devices.
• Use a humidifier in dry or air‑conditioned rooms.
• Stay well‑hydrated by drinking enough water.
• Wear protective glasses in windy or dusty environments.
• Avoid direct air flow from fans, AC vents, or car vents.
• Maintain eyelid cleanliness with warm compresses if advised.
• Use lubricating eye drops recommended by your eye doctor.
• Avoid smoking and smoky environments.

Early recognition and proper management can prevent discomfort and protect long‑term eye health.

Reference: Golden MI, Meyer JJ, Zeppieri M, et al. Dry Eye Syndrome. [Updated 2024 Feb 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan-