WHAT IS DRY EYE?

Dry eye is a condition in which an individual has insufficient or low-quality tears for nourishment and lubrication of the eye. Tears play the vital role of keeping the eyes healthy and providing a clear vision. Dry eye condition is common in aged people.

During blinking, tears spread on the eye surface removing foreign substances, providing lubrication, reducing risk infections and maintaining smoothness and clarity. Excess tears are designed to flow into the back of the nose through tiny drainage ducts located in eyelid corners. Therefore, dry eye results from an imbalance between tear production and drainage.

WHAT CAUSES DRY EYE?

Dry eye is caused by several factors, including:

Age

Most people above the age of 65 show dry eye symptoms.

Medications

Studies have shown that certain medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure reduces the number of tears produced.

Medical Conditions

Research has indicated that conditions such as diabetes, thyroid complications, blepharitis and rheumatoid arthritis increase the chance of developing dry eye.

Environmental Factors

Increased rate of tear evaporation can cause dry eye. Exposure to environmental factors such as dry weather, smoke and wind increase the risk of dryness.