Dry eye syndrome is a common eye problem affecting millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by insufficient tears or poor tear film quality, leading to discomfort, irritation and sometimes visual disturbance.
Causes of dry eye syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can be caused by a number of factors:
• Age: Tear production naturally declines with age, making older people more susceptible to developing this condition.
• Screens: Prolonged exposure to screens reduces blinking, which limits the distribution of tears on the ocular surface.
• Environmental conditions: Wind, smoke, air conditioning and dry air can accelerate tear evaporation.
• Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, can affect tear production.
• Certain illnesses: Conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to dry eyes.
• Medications: Some treatments, such as antihistamines, antidepressants and beta-blockers, can reduce tear production.
• Wearing contact lenses: Prolonged use of contact lenses can irritate the cornea and cause dry eyes.
Treatments for dry eye syndrome
Fortunately, several solutions exist to treat dry eye syndrome and improve visual comfort.
• Artificial tears and ophthalmic gels: Lubricating eye drops can compensate for the lack of natural tears. Gels and ointments can be applied before bedtime for prolonged hydration.
• Adjusting the environment: Avoid drafts, use a humidifier at home and take regular breaks when using screens to encourage natural blinking.
• Eyelid hygiene: Regular cleansing of the eyelids with warm compresses and specific solutions can help unblock the meibomian glands responsible for producing the lipids essential to the tear film.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: A diet rich in omega-3 (oily fish, flaxseed, walnuts) can help improve tear quality and reduce ocular inflammation.cl
• Specific medications and treatments: In certain cases, anti-inflammatory eye drops or immunomodulators such as cyclosporine may be prescribed to stimulate tear production.
• Tear plugs: This procedure involves inserting small plugs into the tear ducts to slow down the evacuation of tears and thus improve eye hydration.
• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment: IPL is a technology that uses pulses of light to treat meibomian gland dysfunction. By stimulating these glands, IPL improves tear quality and reduces dry eye symptoms.
Dry eye syndrome can be a nuisance in everyday life, but there are a number of ways to alleviate the symptoms. By adopting good habits and consulting an optometrist, you can regain better visual comfort. If you experience persistent dryness or eye pain, don't hesitate to make an appointment with your optometrist for a precise diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
