In the condition dry eye syndrome, the available tears do not provide enough moisture for the eye, according to the MayoClinic.com. In some cases, the eye does not produce enough tears and in other cases, the tears that are produced are not very effective at moisturizing the eye. This condition is more common as people age but can also be associated with certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or Graves' disease, according to the American Optometric Association. Dry eyes can cause serious complications if the disease is not managed appropriately.
Tear Film Composition
The tear film contains three layers: a lipid layer, a water layer, and a mucin layer, according to the American Optometric Association. The lipid or oil layer keeps the tears from evaporating away from the eye; the water layer removes any foreign particles out of the eye; and the mucin or mucus layer keeps the tears spread evenly over the front of the eye. A problem with any of these layers can cause the tears be less effective.
Causes
According to the MayoClinic.com, causes of decreased tear production and dry eyes include older age, laser eye surgery or tear gland damage. Eyelid problems such as eyelid trauma or inward-turning eyelids can cause problems with the tear film because the eyelids may not line up properly against the eye affecting the integrity of the tears. Certain medications such as antihistamines, birth control pills and diuretic medications can also cause dry eye symptoms.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dry eyes include scratchiness, ocular discomfort and mild changes in vision, according to the American Optometric Association. In severe cases of dry eye, the patient may also experience significant pain, excessive tearing and decreased visual acuity. The patient may also notice sensitivity to light and difficulty wearing contact lenses, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Complications
The complications that may occur as a result of dry eyes can be visually significant and long-lasting. The increased dryness of the eyes can lead to higher susceptibility to developing eye infections because one of the functions of the tear film is to remove bacteria away from the cornea, according to the MayoClinic.com. Patients may also develop corneal scarring from frequent eye infections and constant inflammation of the eye, according to the National Health Service of the United Kingdom. The corneal scarring can cause a decrease in vision.
Treatment
Treatment for dry eyes involves multiple therapies. According to the MayoClinic.com, for patients with mild dry eye symptoms, artificial tears from over-the-counter solutions usually manage the problems successfully. If a medication is causing the dry eye symptoms, the doctor may be able to switch medications. Eyelid problems may require surgical intervention. For patients with more severe symptoms, the therapies may become more complex. Patients may be prescribed Restasis which is also known as cyclosporine, to lessen eye inflammation and increase tear production. Artificial tear inserts that fit into the tear ducts may also be used to treat dry eyes. Eye doctors may also place plugs into the tear ducts of the eye to prevent the tears that are available from draining away from the eye, according to the American Optometric Association.
