Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a common and chronic condition

Symptoms
Risk factors
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention

Dry eye syndrome is a serious, chronic, and common condition that can be caused by various factors: reduced tear production, impaired function of the oil glands, inflammation of the ocular surface, or other health problems. Symptoms are persistent or recurrent and can worsen over time if left untreated.

According to official data, this condition affects over 350 million people worldwide, spanning all age groups – from young individuals who excessively use computers and smart devices to people over 50 years old with various medical conditions.

Disruption of the tear film occurs due to decreased tear production or excessive tear evaporation, which damages the exposed ocular surface. Over 85% of cases are caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. These glands are located in the eyelids and are responsible for producing the lipid (oil) layer of the tears.

When the meibomian glands do not function properly, they don’t produce enough oily component for the tear film, causing tears to evaporate up to 16 times faster.

If dry eye syndrome is left untreated, it can lead to various complications, ranging from discomfort to serious eye damage.

Symptoms

Pain
Redness
Burning and itching
Irritation
Sensation of sand or a foreign body in the eye
Blurred vision
Light sensitivity
Difficulty opening eyes in the morning
Excessive tearing

Typically, symptoms worsen towards the end of the day, as well as with abrupt climate changes, when staying in air-conditioned rooms, or during prolonged screen time. Often, discomfort and eye redness appear in the morning, upon waking.

Risk Factors

Prolonged screen time, leading to insufficient and incomplete blinking
Various types of eye surgery and procedures
Extended periods in smoky environments, with cigarette smoke, or in air-conditioned spaces
Hormonal problems and thyroid dysfunction
Conditions causing eyelid inflammation – rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis
Long-term contact lens wear
Excessive use of makeup
Use of certain medications (e.g., diuretics for high blood pressure, allergy medications, sleeping pills, antidepressants)

Diagnosis

Unlike a standard eye exam – which typically includes a symptom questionnaire, eyelid examination, eye staining, and the Schirmer test – at VISION, we apply the most advanced method for diagnosing dry eye syndrome with the LacryDiag device. This device performs a complete analysis of the ocular surface, providing the most accurate and specific results.

The examination is non-contact and painless, measuring the three layers of the tear film. It provides a rapid assessment of the tear film’s condition and associated structures. The entire examination takes only about 4-5 minutes.

LacryDiag also provides images and analysis of the meibomian glands in the eyelid (responsible for producing the lipid layer of tears), allowing for an evaluation of the condition of these glands. This is crucial for diagnosing various forms of dry eye.

Treatment

The most innovative and effective method for treating dry eye syndrome is photo-biostimulation therapy. With this therapy, symptoms significantly decrease within minutes, and after several sessions, they may completely disappear. VISION Clinic is equipped with the most modern device for dry eye treatment, which combines an IPL system for parasympathetic nerve stimulation and an LLLT system that emits red light to aid in the release of adenosine triphosphate (cellular energy).

The IPL system effectively stimulates both the lacrimal gland and the meibomian glands in the eyelids (which form the protective layer of the tear film), improving their secretion and function, and normalizing the composition and quality of the tear film.

LLLT (Low-Level Laser Therapy) emits red light to stimulate cellular activity in the eyelid area and meibomian glands. This leads to improved gland function, increased tear production, and relief of dry eye symptoms.

Typically, a series of procedures (3-4 sessions over several weeks) is recommended for optimal results.

Other therapies for dry eye syndrome include:

Eye drops or gels, often called “artificial tears,” which moisturize the eye and can be applied frequently as needed. These methods help alleviate symptoms but do not provide a long-term solution to the underlying dryness, chronic inflammation, and discomfort.
Punctal plugs for blocking tear ducts is another type of therapy that aims to retain more tear fluid on the eye’s surface. Punctal occlusion is not suitable for all patients with dry eye syndrome and carries a risk of infection.

Avoid prolonged exposure to dry air (air conditioning, heating, or fans) for extended periods.
Wear sunglasses that protect your eyes from wind, dust, and UV rays.
When working with computers or screen devices, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away from the screen and focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Increase your blinking frequency when looking at screens to prevent eye dryness.
Adjust screen brightness and contrast to reduce eye strain.
Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseed, walnuts), which support tear production.
Drink enough water (at least 1.5-2 liters daily) to maintain good hydration for your body and eyes.
Maintain regular eye hygiene, especially if you wear contact lenses or makeup, and avoid rubbing your eyes excessively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Warm and dry compresses at home can reduce irritation and provide temporary relief. However, this method does not cure dry eye syndrome; it offers a short-term effect in alleviating symptoms.

Patients are commonly prescribed moisturizing eye drops or warm compresses, but these only contribute to symptom relief and do not provide a long-term solution to the problem.

The most modern treatment for dry eye syndrome is IPL therapy, which directly targets the underlying condition.

IPL therapy effectively stimulates both the lacrimal gland and the large oil glands in the eyelids (which form the superficial layer of the tear film), improving their secretion and function, and normalizing the composition and quality of the tear film.

Within minutes, symptoms – pain, redness, burning and itching, foreign body sensation, blurred vision, and excessive tearing – significantly decrease, and after a few sessions, they may completely disappear. The procedure is highly effective and relaxing.

In the Schirmer test, the doctor places marked filter paper strips in the patient’s lower eyelids, after which the patient closes their eyes. After 5 minutes, the doctor removes the filter paper and assesses how far the tears have moistened the paper. The less moisture on the paper, the fewer tears the patient has produced.