Dry eye syndrome is a chronic condition caused by insufficient or abnormal tear production. Dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, can be caused by variety of medical and environmental conditions. Diseases such as lupus, Sjögren's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis may cause dry eye. Medications, laser eye surgery, and long-term contact lens use can also cause dry eye. Older women and men can experience dry eye as a consequence of normal aging. The National Eye Institute (NEI) reports approximately 5 million Americans age 50 and older have dry eye, with women disproportionately affected. Dry eye syndrome symptoms reflect eye irritation caused by inadequate tears.
Dryness and Scratchiness
The eyes of people with dry eye syndrome are perceptibly dry and uncomfortable. Scratchiness and a sensation of grittiness or something being in the eye are commonly reported symptoms, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).
Burning, Stinging and Itching
Burning, stinging and itching are common symptoms in people with dry eye syndrome, reports NEI. Interestingly, when these symptoms are severe, the eyes may tear excessively in response to the irritation.
Increased Blinking and Eye Redness
Inadequate tears cause irritation of the eye surface leading to chronic eye redness. The irritation associated with dry eye syndrome also commonly causes increased blinking, notes "The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals."
Light Sensitivity and Eye Pain
The Mayo Clinic explains dryness of the eye surface may cause light sensitivity, also known as photophobia. People with dry eye syndrome often find bright light hurts their eyes. Shooting eye pain may occur intermittently, especially when the eyes are tired after long periods of focusing such as during reading or working at a computer.
Eye Fatigue and Blurry Vision
NEI reports dry eye syndrome may cause periodic blurry vision and eye fatigue after brief periods requiring effortful eye focus. In a 2007 study published in the "American Journal of Ophthalmology," Dr. B. Miljanović and colleagues reported people with dry eye syndrome are significantly more likely to have problems reading, driving and using a computer compared to people without the condition. Rarely, severe dry eye may cause permanent damage to and scarring of the surface of the eye with associated visual impairment.
Mucus Accumulation
Dry eye syndrome often causes stringy mucus accumulation in the eyes, reports AAO. Dry eye sufferers may need to wipe mucus from the corners of the eyes throughout the day. This mucus may also accumulate during sleep causing a dry, crusty buildup in the eyelashes in the morning.
