Today, most of us spend hours every day in front of computer, mobile phone, or tablet screens. This lifestyle often leads to the development of Dry Eye Syndrome – a condition that can significantly affect your quality of life.
However, dry eye is not only the result of working on a computer – it can also be a warning sign that something in the body isn’t working properly. Understanding the causes and mechanisms behind it is the key to effective treatment.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the composition of the tears is not adequate to keep the eye surface properly moisturized and protected. The result is irritation, eye fatigue, and often blurred vision.
Typical Symptoms:
- A feeling of dryness, burning, or “sand in the eyes,” eye irritation
- Redness of the eyes
- Eye fatigue, especially after computer work or reading
- Blurred vision, especially toward the end of the day
- Sensitivity to light
- Paradoxical tearing or excessive watery eyes (as a reaction to irritation)
Causes and Contributing Factors
Dry eye syndrome can develop for many reasons, which can be divided into two main groups:
1. Reduced Tear Production
The eye does not produce enough tears – either due to a dysfunction or damage to the tear glands.
Possible causes:
- Age – tear production naturally decreases with age
- Hormonal changes – menopause, low estrogen levels
- Medication side effects – some drugs reduce tear secretion, such as:
– antihistamines
– antidepressants (SSRI, tricyclic antidepressants)
– beta-blockers, blood pressure medications
– diuretics
– oral contraceptives - Radiation or chemotherapy – can damage tear glands
- Systemic autoimmune diseases – see below
2. Excessive Tear Evaporation
Tears are produced, but they evaporate too quickly due to a problem with the lipid layer (Meibomian gland dysfunction).
Contributing factors:
- Prolonged screen use without blinking
- Dry air, air conditioning, or fans
- Wearing contact lenses
- Inflammation of the eyelid margins (blepharitis, meibomitis)
- Eye-area cosmetics (makeup, makeup removers)
- Chronic allergic conjunctivitis
- Infrequent or incomplete blinking
Systemic Diseases Associated with Dry Eye
Dry eye can also be a symptom of another underlying disease, especially:
- Sjögren’s syndrome – an autoimmune disease affecting the salivary and tear glands
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Scleroderma
- Diabetes mellitus – affects nerve supply and tear production
- Vitamin A deficiency – rare in Europe, but can severely affect the tear film
- Thyroid disorders (e.g., Graves’ disease)
- Atopic eczema, psoriasis
How is Dry Eye Diagnosed?
The diagnosis is based on medical history and an examination of the front part of the eye.
In our clinic, we use a state-of-the-art device called IDRA (Tear Film Analyzer), which allows for non-invasive and precise testing of the eyes when dry eye is suspected.
This examination is completely painless and takes only a few minutes.
Based on the analysis, we can determine the exact type of dry eye you have (aqueous-deficient, evaporative, or mixed type) and tailor the treatment accordingly. The device can also show the condition of the Meibomian glands, which are often affected and responsible for tear quality issues.
🔎 IDRA = accurate diagnosis without test strips or dyes.
Treatment – Relief for Your Eyes
Treatment for dry eye depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. It most often includes:
1. Local Treatment
- Artificial tears – preservative-free drops that keep the eye moist
- Gels or ointments – especially for night use
- Antibiotic or combination drops – for eyelid margin inflammation
- Warm compresses and eyelid massage – to improve Meibomian gland function
- Environmental and lifestyle changes – regular breaks from computer work, sufficient blinking, humidifying the air
- Punctal occlusion – closing the tear duct to retain moisture
2. General (Systemic) Treatment
- Omega-3 fatty acids – reduce inflammation and improve tear quality
- Oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline) – for chronic blepharitis or meibomitis
- Immunosuppressants (e.g., for Sjögren’s syndrome) – in cooperation with a rheumatologist
- Hormone replacement therapy – in menopause (case-by-case basis only)
What Can You Do for Your Eyes?
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (6 meters) away for 20 seconds.
- Be mindful of dry air – use a humidifier.
- Remember to blink, especially during focused work.
- Wear quality sunglasses – protect your eyes from wind and UV radiation.
- Use artificial tears regularly, not only when symptoms worsen.
- Maintain proper eyelid hygiene – clean the eyelid margins daily.
Conclusion – A Modern Approach to Dry Eye Care
Dry eye is not just an unpleasant feeling – it’s a real condition that requires attention.
If you suffer from dry eyes, it’s not enough to simply use artificial tears. It’s important to understand why your eyes burn, itch, or water, and choose the most effective treatment based on the cause.
In Our Eye Clinic, We Offer:
- Detailed diagnostics with the IDRA device
- Comprehensive examination and an individual treatment plan
- Modern Rexon-Eye therapy as one of the options for symptom relief
If you notice symptoms of dry eye, schedule an eye examination. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment can significantly improve both comfort and vision quality. With proper and timely care, you can prevent permanent eye surface damage and chronic discomfort.
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