The three mucoaqueous layers protects and lubricates the eye.

What are the causes of Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes occur primarily due to two reasons:

• Poor-quality tears
• Inadequate tear production

Dry eyes can also arise when the Meibomian glands are blocked or inflamed. When this happens, there is no oily layer or protection to prevent the tears from evaporating quickly. This condition is called Meibomitis or Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

What are the signs and symptoms of Dry Eyes?

• Itchiness
• Burning and stinging sensation
• Tired eyes
• Sensitivity to bright light
• Scratchiness or grittiness
• Blurred vision
• Red eyes
• Excessive tearing
• Crusting of the eyelids
• Foreign body sensation

What are the risk factors of Dry Eyes?

• Aging – Although dry eyes can affect people of all ages, it is a common condition among those 50 years and older
• Contact lens wear – Contact lenses evaporate tears and should thus be a concern for people who constantly use contact lenses
• Environment – Ceiling fans, air conditioning, exposure to smoke, wind, haze and heat increases the risk
• Heavy computer use – People tend to blink less when using computers, smartphones or other portable digital devises for long periods. This leads to greater tear evaporation.
• Medication – Some medication including antidepressants, antihistamines and birth control pills are associated to dry eye syndrome
•  Medical condition – People living with certain medical conditions may experience dry eyes, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Thyroid and Sjogren Syndrome.
•  Menopause – Higher risk of dry eyes among post-menopausal women
• Eyelid problems – Occur among people who have incomplete closure of eyelids when blinking and sleeping

How are Dry Eyes diagnosed?

Upon consultation with an Eyecentric ophthalmologist at Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre (BTMC), the doctor will first ask about your medical conditions, prescribed medications and your use of contact lenses.

The eye doctor will then examine your tear film using a special microscope called a slit lamp. Eye drops with a dye may be used to hep identify if there are any dry spots on your eyes.

A strip of filter paper, called a Schirmer’s strip, is used to test for ear production. It is inserted in the lower lid for approximately 5 minutes to determine the amount of tear your tear glands are able to produce sufficient eye moisture.

What are the treatments for dry eyes?

Behavioural and environmental modifications to your lifestyle can help reduce the instances of experiencing dry eyes. This may be through taking multiple breaks when using computers and electronic gadgets or installing an air-humidifier in air-conditioned rooms. Other things that patients can do on their own include:

• Wearing sunglasses when outdoors to reduce exposure to dust, wind and the sun
• Blinking regularly when reading or when working on the computer
• Opting to use spectacles instead of contact lenses or reducing contact lens wear
• Eating foods high in fatty acids
• Removing eye makeup thoroughly, especially the eyelids

The most common treatment for dry eyes is the use of artificial tears. Warm compresses over the eyelid can also help to regulate tear production.

In severe or persistent cases of dry eye symptoms, your eye specialist may suggest punctal occlusion. This is a treatment where the tear drainage system is blocked to aid in the preservation of natural tears.

In cases of eyelid problems, other surgeries may be suggested during consultation.

Speak to an Eyecentric eye specialist when you come to BTMC. With years of experience under our belt, you can rest assured knowing our staff are fully dedicated to preserving your eyesight.