Dry Eye Syndrome

Our eyes are one of our most important sensory organs that allow us to connect with the outside world. However, modern lifestyle and environmental factors can negatively affect our eye health and cause various problems. One of these problems is dry eye syndrome. This syndrome is a condition that occurs when the eyes are not moisturized enough. It is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world.

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

This syndrome occurs when the amount of tears naturally produced by the eyes decreases or the quality of tears decreases. Tears are important for moisturizing and protecting the eyes and cleaning foreign substances. However, in case of decreased tear production or poor quality tears, dryness, irritation and discomfort occur in the eyes.

What are the Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome?

Symptoms of this syndrome often vary from person to person and may vary in severity. However, common symptoms may include:

• Burning and Stinging in the Eyes: A constant burning or stinging sensation in the eyes is one of the most common symptoms of this syndrome.
• Blurred Vision: Blurred vision or difficulty focusing may occur due to the eyes not being sufficiently moistened.
• Redness and Inflammation: Redness, inflammation or swelling may occur in the eyes.
• Eye Dryness and Discomfort: There may be a feeling of dryness, discomfort or a feeling of a foreign object in the eyes.
• Sensitivity to Light: You may experience more sensitivity to light than normal.

What are the Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome?

This syndrome can be caused by many different factors. These include:

• Aging: As we get older, tear production may decrease and the risk of dry eye syndrome may increase.
• Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as dry and windy weather, cigarette smoke, air-conditioned or heated environments can cause dry eyes.
• Eye Diseases: Eye diseases such as blepharitis and conjunctivitis can lead to dry eye syndrome.
• Eye Surgery: This syndrome may develop after eye surgery procedures such as LASIK.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy or menopause, can cause this syndrome.

Treatment and Prevention Methods

Treatment of dry eye syndrome may vary depending on the underlying causes. Its treatment options include artificial tears in the form of eye drops or gels, anti-inflammatory drops, eyelid cleansing, moisturizing eye masks, lifestyle changes and environmental modifications.

The following measures can be taken to prevent dry eye syndrome or relieve symptoms:

• Regular eye examinations should be performed and an ophthalmologist should be consulted when necessary.
• If working in front of a computer or other digital screens for a long time, the eyes should be rested at regular intervals.
• Humidifiers should be used to increase air humidity and humid environments should be preferred.
• To protect eye health, a healthy diet should be adopted and enough water should be drunk.

A Common Problem in Eye Health

This syndrome is a common and bothersome eye health problem. However, it is possible to relieve or control symptoms with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. To maintain eye health and avoid dry eye syndrome, it is important to have regular eye exams and keep your eyes moist.