Dry eye disease is one of the most frequently encountered conditions in ophthalmology. Despite its prevalence, it is often misunderstood and underestimated. Many people assume that dry eyes are a minor inconvenience; however, when persistent, the condition can significantly affect visual quality, daily comfort, and overall eye health.
What Is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when the eyes are unable to maintain a stable and healthy tear film.
This instability may result from:
- Reduced tear production (aqueous-deficient dry eye), or
- Excessive tear evaporation, often due to inadequate oil secretion from the meibomian glands (evaporative dry eye)
In clinical practice, most patients present with a combination of both types.
The tear film itself has three layers—lipid (oil), aqueous (water), and mucin, and
dysfunction in any of these layers can lead to symptoms of dry eyes.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Patients with dry eye disease may report a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Dryness or irritation
- Burning sensation in the eyes
- Gritty or sandy feeling
- Red eyes due to dryness
- Fluctuating or blurred vision
- Dry eyes at night or on waking
- Watery eyes but persistent discomfort
Causes and Risk Factors
- Dry Eyes from Screen Time
Prolonged use of digital devices significantly reduces blink frequency, leading to tear film instability and increased evaporation. This is now one of the most common causes of dry eyes, particularly in younger adults.
- Environmental Factors
Dry eyes caused by air conditioning, low humidity, wind exposure, or hot climates are frequently observed. These factors accelerate tear evaporation and worsen symptoms.
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
MGD is a leading cause of evaporative dry eye. Dysfunction of these oil-secreting glands results in poor tear film stability and chronic ocular surface irritation.
Can Dry Eye Disease Be Cured?
Dry eye disease is typically chronic. While it cannot always be cured permanently, it can be effectively controlled with proper diagnosis, consistent treatment, and patient education.
Most individuals achieve meaningful symptom relief and improved quality of life.
- Treating Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Management may include:
- Warm compresses
- Lid hygiene
- Dietary omega-3 supplementation
In selected cases, advanced therapies such as IPL treatment for dry eyes or thermal gland expression may be considered.
- Prescription Therapies
For inflammatory or chronic dry eye disease, prescription eye drops for dry eyes may be used to reduce ocular surface inflammation and improve tear quality.
- Supportive Lifestyle Measures
Educational counselling is an important part of management and may include:
- Taking regular breaks during screen use
- Maintaining adequate hydration
- Avoiding direct airflow to the eyes
- Practicing conscious blinking
Don’t Let Dry Eyes Affect Your Comfort, Book Your Appointment at HSMC Clinic Today
Dry eyes can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but the good news is you don’t have to suffer.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like irritation, a gritty feeling, or excessive tearing, it’s time to act. Don’t wait for the discomfort to worsen—get ahead of it now.
- At HSMC Clinic, our dedicated team is ready to help you find effective, personalized treatments for dry eye disease. Whether you’re dealing with dry eyes from screen time, environmental factors, or meibomian gland dysfunction, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your needs.
- Book your easy, convenient appointment today and start feeling relief. With our professional care, you’ll be back to enjoying clear, comfortable vision in no time.
Prioritize your eye health today and let our experts guide you to a solution that works.
