Tears help lubricate the eye while washing away dust, debris and microorganisms that are harmful to your eye. Because of this, having dry eyes or Dry Eye Syndrome it is a major reason for visits to an eye doctor. It is common and often a chronic eye condition.
Leaving dry eyes untreated can lead to inflammation and even damage to the surface of the eyes.
Your tears consist of 3 important layers produced by various glands:
Oily/lipid layer – Produced by the Meibomian glands, this outer layer lubricates the eye while preventing the evaporation of the watery inner layers
Water/aqueous layer – Produced by the lacrimal glands, this layer acts by washing away debris and has antibacterial functions
Mucuos layer – Produced by goblet cells on the conjunctiva, it acts to spread tears evenly across the surface of the eye
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).
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
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
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.
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
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.
