Dry Eye: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
In recent years, many patients complain of burning, stinging, and dryness in their eyes. These complaints often indicate dry eye disease, a common condition that affects quality of life and visual comfort. Although uncomfortable, dry eye can be effectively managed with the right diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
The most common symptoms include:
- Burning, stinging, and dryness in the eyes
- Persistent redness
- Eye fatigue, especially after screen use
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Feeling of a foreign body (like sand) in the eyes
- Increased discomfort with contact lens wear
These symptoms tend to worsen after long hours in front of a computer, in air-conditioned rooms, or when exposed to wind.
Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye can develop due to multiple factors:
- Aging: Tear production decreases with age.
- Hormonal changes: Especially common in women after menopause.
- Environmental factors: Air conditioning, wind, and dry climate.
- Prolonged screen time: Reduces blink frequency.
- Contact lens use: Lenses may absorb tears.
- Certain medications: Antidepressants, antihypertensives, antihistamines.
- Eyelid or tear gland problems: Such as blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction.
- Systemic diseases: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, rheumatic diseases.
Treatment of Dry Eye
Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause.
- Artificial tears: Most common option, preservative-free formulas are preferred.
- Lubricating gels and ointments: Effective especially at night.
- Anti-inflammatory eye drops: In cases with inflammation.
- Eyelid hygiene and warm compresses: Useful for meibomian gland dysfunction.
- Punctal plugs: Help tears stay longer on the eye surface.
- Light or laser therapies: Applied in selected cases.
Prevention and Lifestyle Tips
Patients can reduce symptoms and protect their eyes by following these recommendations:
- Blink frequently when using digital devices.
- Apply the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Keep indoor air moist, use a humidifier if needed.
- Avoid direct air from fans or air conditioning.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Follow your doctor’s advice if you wear contact lenses.
✅ Conclusion:
Dry eye is one of the most common eye problems today, affecting people of all ages. Early awareness and simple preventive steps can make treatment much easier. If you experience constant dryness, burning, or stinging in your eyes, it is important to consult an eye doctor.
👉 At Kaşkaloğlu Eye Hospital, we provide all modern diagnostic and treatment methods for dry eye disease. Each patient is evaluated individually, and the most suitable therapy is planned according to their needs.
