Dry eye syndrome symptoms

Dry eye syndrome can cause debilitating and painful symptoms, including itchy eyes, a feeling of dryness, increased sensitivity to light, and a sensation of sand in the eyes.

Prevalence and causes of dry eye syndrome

This condition affects between 10 and 15% of the population and is due to a malfunction in the production of tears, which are a mixture of water and oil. The tear liquid serves to protect the eye, filter light and air pollutants, ensure clear vision, and prevent pain during blinking. However, in dry eye syndrome, the lipid film is missing.

Daily life factors contributing to dry eyes

Several factors in daily life can cause or worsen dry eyes. These include working on a computer, which reduces blinking and natural lubrication, environmental factors such as pollution, allergies, air conditioning, heating, or cold, and certain diseases such as rosacea or psoriasis, which can cause inflammation of the eyelids and affect the lacrimal glands.

Treatment options for dry eye syndrome

Solutions for dry eye syndrome include the use of lubricating eye drops and possibly anti-inflammatory eye drops, which hydrate the cornea and reduce the feeling of dryness. Warm compresses or heating masks can be applied to the eyelids with the eyes closed for several minutes, helping to reduce blockages in the Meibomian glands. After application, gently massaging the eyelid can release secretions and stimulate eye lubrication. These products are available in pharmacies and are inexpensive. In more advanced cases, techniques such as pulsed light or the insertion of plugs in the lacrimal duct to prevent tear drainage may be used.

Managing dry eyes in daily life

To manage dry eyes in daily life, simple gestures can help limit damage and improve eye comfort. When working on a computer, take regular breaks to look far away beyond the screen, following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (about 6 meters) away for at least 20 seconds. Blinking regularly while in front of a screen is also recommended, such as blinking 10 times for a minute periodically. Avoiding air conditioning or strong heating and using an air humidifier can also help. It is important to consult an ophthalmologist for this condition, which, although sometimes perceived as benign, is a real pathology that can become very debilitating and painful.