Do you ever find yourself squinting at your computer screen, struggling to focus on your favorite
book, or yearning for relief from a gritty, stinging sensation in your eyes? If you're over 40, you're
not alone. Dry eye disease, a chronic condition affecting millions of adults, becomes increasingly
common with age.
This condition, while not sight-threatening, can significantly disrupt your daily life and impact your
overall well-being. But fear not! This guide delves deep into the world of dry eyes, equipping you
with the knowledge and strategies to manage and overcome this frustrating condition.
Our eyes rely on a complex tear film, a three-layered shield that protects, lubricates, and nourishes the cornea, the eye's outermost surface. This tear film comprises three crucial layers:
Dry eye disease disrupts this delicate balance. It can occur due to insufficient tear production, excessive tear evaporation, or a combination of both.
Dry eye disease often manifests through a constellation of symptoms, including:
These symptoms can vary in intensity and may worsen in dry environments, during prolonged screen time, or upon waking up in the morning.
Several factors can contribute to dry eye disease:
While lubricating eye drops [3] can provide temporary relief, they don't address the underlying cause of dry eye disease. Here, we explore a range of solutions to achieve lasting dry eye management:
Consulting your Optometrist is crucial for determining the cause of your dry eye and developing a personalized treatment plan.