Dry eye syndrome

But it's also a known fact that many of the infections and illness start and escalate at this season.

Health authorities have showed concern over the growing cases of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) at this period of the year and have asked the people to be aware of this disorder.

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture in the eye. Its consequences extend from subtle but constant irritation to ocular inflammation of the anterior (front) tissues of the eye.

What Do Tears Do?
Tears keep your eyes moist, help ocular wounds heal and guard against infection. They also wash away allergens and protect the eye. Without tears, good vision is impossible.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?
A myriad of reasons cause dry eye syndrome. This is inclusive of immune system disorder, insufficient production of tears, excessive evaporation of tears or even because of medications such as antibiotics, antihistamines and diuretics which can dry up the mucous membranes.

But the important and common reasons would be the normal ageing process. It's also found in people who wear contact lenses because the contacts absorb the tear film, causing proteins to form on the surface of the lens.

However coming to this part of the world DES is more a result of exposing the eyes to sun, wind and extreme heat. Moreover, contemporary influences such as wearing contact lenses, fluorescent lighting or air-conditioning can also add up.

What Are The Symptoms?
• Constant rough and painful sensation in the eyes
• Inability to cry under emotional stress
• Decreased tolerance of contact lenses
• Patients may become unusually sensitive to light and experience severe eye pain in extreme cases of dry eye.

If the above mentioned signs persist, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist.

Standard treatment for DES is artificial tears which lubricates, provides and retains moisture of the eye. However simple lifestyle changes that can significantly improve irritation from dry eyes.

For example, drinking eight to ten glasses of water each day keeps the body hydrated and flushes impurities. Make a conscious effort to blink frequently - especially when reading or watching television. Avoid rubbing the eyes. This only worsens the irritation.