| Dry
Eye Syndrome |
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of Contents |
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Alternative
Names
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Defination
Dry
eye syndrome is the decline of the quality or quantity of tears bathing
the eye. The patient experiences constant pain from eye irritation, and
a sandy or gritty sensation that, if untreated, can lead to scarring or
ulceration of the cornea, and thus loss of vision.
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Causes,
Incidence and Risk Factors
Many different things cause dry eye syndrome. The normal aging of tear
glands, as well as specific diseases and disorders, may cause changes
in the amount and condition of tears produced.
- "Sjögren's
syndrome," an immune system disorder characterized by inflammation and
dryness of the mouth, eyes, and other mucous membranes, damages the
lacrimal glands, and this damage affects tear production.
- Decreased
sensitivity of the cornea can also lead to insufficient production of
tears. This lack of sensitivity can be brought on by a disease known
as "neurotrophic keratitis" as well as by some types of contact lens
wear.
- Excessive
evaporation of tears can also cause dry eye syndrome. Such evaporation
may be caused by "meibomitis," which results from infection and inflammation
of the meibomian glands in the eyelids. People with unusually large
eyes, as well as those who suffer from thyroid disease, may also experience
dry eye syndrome caused by excessive evaporation.
- Dry eye
can also result from unusual facial anatomy or irregularities in the
cornea, resulting in uneven or inadequate tear coverage of the eye.
Some patients suffer from dry eye as a result of medications such as
antibiotics, antihistamines, diuretics, and anti-diarrheals, which can
dry up the mucous membranes. Hormonal changes can also affect secretions
from the tear glands.
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Prevention
- Have annual
eye exams.
- See your
ophthalmologist immediately if you notice dry eye symptoms or any decline
in your vision.
- Make arrangements
with your family and your local eye bank to bequest your eyes to a center
on dry eye syndrome. Both normal and diseased eyes are needed.
- Volunteer,
whether your vision is excellent or otherwise, to participate in scientific
studies.
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Symptoms
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Signs
& Tests
Early signs
of dry eye are:
- An occasional
burning sensation in the eyes when in areas of low humidity or high
pollution.
- A gritty
sensation in the eyes which is persistent and painful.
- An inability
to cry under emotional stress.
- Decreased
tolerance of contact lenses.
- In extreme
cases of dry eye, patients may become unusually sensitive to light,
experience severe eye pain, or notice diminished vision.
If
early signs persist, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist. S/He
will check for corneal abrasion or infection and begin treatment to
avoid permanent damage.
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Treatment
Dry eyes
are typically treated by applying artificial tears and ointments. These
give temporary relief, but usually do not arrest or reverse damage to
the eye. The Schepens has recently developed a new eye drop. In preclinical
trials, these drops restored the electrolyte balance of the tears and
promoted healing of the cornea.
For dry eye caused by Sjögren's syndrome, The Schepens has also pioneered
a hormone therapy that is a candidate for clinical studies. If the trials
are successful, this treatment may be available in a few years.
Dry eye caused by "meibomitis" (the infection and inflammation of oil
glands in the eyelids) can be treated with antibiotics such as tetracycline.
Some forms of dry eye benefit from the placement of tiny plugs in the
ducts that drain tears from the eye. For severe forms of dry eye, special
goggles called "moisture-chamber spectacles" can be worn. Further research
into treatment and prevention of dry eye syndrome is continuing at The
Schepens Eye Research Institute.
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Expectations
(Prognosis)
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Complications
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Calling
your doctor/health care provider
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