Dry eye syndrome

Definition

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the tear glands produce fewer tears. The symptoms range from mild irritation and a sensation of something in the eye, to severe discomfort and sensitivity to light.

See also conjunctivitis, decreased tearing, vitamin A deficiency, and Sjogren syndrome.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Dry eye syndrome often occurs in people who are otherwise healthy. It is more common with older age, because you produce fewer tears with age. In rare cases, it can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosis, and other similar diseases. It may also be caused by thermal or chemical burns.

In areas of the world where malnutrition is common, vitamin A deficiency is a common cause. This is rare in the United States.

Signs and tests

An ophthalmologist can look at the film of tears on your eye using a slit lamp (biomicroscope). A dye such as fluorescein may be placed in the eye to make the tear film more visible. Your health care provider may do a Schirmer's test, measuring the rate of tear production using a calibrated paper wick placed on the edge of the eyelid.

Your eye's cornea may be thick. You may have reduced visual acuity.

Treatment

Wetting drops called artificial tears may be used for treatment. Lubricating ointments may help more severe cases. Tiny plugs may be placed in the tear drainage ducts to help the tears remain on the surface of the eye.

Expectations (prognosis)

Most patients with dry eye have only discomfort, and no vision loss. With severe cases, the cornea (clear window on the front of the eye) may become damaged or infected.

Complications

Ulcers or infections of the cornea are serious complications.

Calling your health care provider

See your health care provider immediately if you have dry eyes and have a sudden increase in discomfort or redness, or a sudden decrease in vision.

Prevention

There is no way to prevent keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Complications can be prevented by use of wetting and lubricating drops and ointments.

Illustrations

Eye anatomy

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Keratitis sicca; Xerophthalmia; Keratoconjunctivitis sicca ; keratitis sicca; xerophthalmia; keratoconjunctivitis sicca