In an era marked by advancing technology, evolving environments and ageing populations, a new challenge has emerged - the prevalence of Dry Eye Syndrome is steadily on the rise. Modern-day estimates are that 344 million people worldwide suffer from dry eye disease making it one of the most prevalent refractive diseases in contemporary times [1].
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye
• Persistent dryness, itching, or a burning sensation in the eyes
• Excessive tearing or watery eyes (as a compensatory response to dryness)
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision
• Eye fatigue or discomfort, particularly after extended periods of reading, computer usage, or driving
• Sensation of a foreign object in the eye
Factors Contributing to Dry Eye
- Screen Time: With the continuous digitisation of our world, increased screen time with devices like smartphones, computers, tablets and TVs alters blinking patterns, leading to reduced tear production and increased tear evaporation, triggering Dry Eye symptoms.
- Environmental Influences: Dry and windy conditions (something residents of the UK and Ireland are well acquainted with), as well as air conditioning and heating systems indoors, can dry out the eyes and exacerbate symptoms.
- Ageing Population: As life expectancy rises, tear production decreases with age, making older adults more susceptible to Dry Eye. Additionally, the prevalence of Dry Eye is heightened in individuals managing other health conditions necessitating medication.
- Hormonal Changes: Estrogen levels relating to pregnancy, menopause or contraceptive pills can directly influence eye health and the likelihood of Dry Eye.
- Contact Lens Use: Regular contact lens wearers often experience symptoms due to reduced oxygen flow to the cornea, leading to irritation and the worsening of symptoms.
- Medical Conditions and Medications: Certain medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases like Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes and thyroid disorders, can impact tear quality and production, resulting in Dry Eye symptoms. Furthermore, medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants can either cause or exacerbate the issue.
Understanding the Causes of Dry Eye
Dry Eye syndrome can stem from various factors, typically manifesting as an imbalance within the tear film essential for eye lubrication. This tear film comprises three layers - an oily layer, a watery layer and a mucous layer, disruptions in any of these layers can lead to Dry Eye symptoms.
Common causes may involve:
• Inadequate tear production triggered by ageing, hormonal changes, specific medications, or medical conditions affecting the tear glands. This is known as aqueous deficient dry eye.
• Poor tear quality leading to rapid evaporation or uneven spread across the eye's surface due to factors such as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction or Blepharitis. This is known as evaporative dry eye.
Seeking Relief for Dry Eye Symptoms
If you experience symptoms indicative of Dry Eye Syndrome, seeking a professional diagnosis and tailored treatment from an eye care specialist is crucial. Treatment options could include prescription medications, lifestyle modifications or procedures addressing underlying causes, such as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).
In excess of 86% of patients with Dry Eye report they benefit from Lipiflow, a therapeutic procedure that can reduce blockages of the eyelid glands. It is a revolutionary, virtually painless treatment that helps to alleviate the suffering that Dry Eye can bring.
The surge of Dry Eye cases presents a growing challenge in the face of modern lifestyles characterised by technological advancement, but thankfully it is a treatable condition in the overwhelming majority of cases. With early diagnosis and proper management, individuals can experience significant relief from Dry Eye symptoms and maintain optimal eye health.
[1] Market Scope. 2016 Dry Eye Products Report: A Global Market Analysis for 2015 to 2021. St Louis: Market Scope; 2016.
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