2. DRY EYE
What is Dry Eye?
In a healthy eye, tears are responsible for a
perfectly smooth ocular surface which allows
clear vision. Tears also clean and lubricate the
eye. Every time we blink, a fresh layer of tear
called the Tear Film spreads over the eye. The
Tear Film is responsible for keeping the eye moist
and comfortable. Sometimes eye may stop
producing enough tears or tears may get
evaporated too quickly. This common and often
too chronic condition is referred to as Dry Eye
Syndrome.
Dry Eye can have multiple contributors:
Mucin Layer: Adheres tears to the eye
Aqueous Layer: Nourishes and protects the cornea
Lipid Layer: Lubricates and prevents evaporation
Medications such as: antihistamines,
nasal decongestants, tranquilizers,
blood pressure medicines, birth
control pills and antidepressants
Postmenopausal women
Diseases of the glands in the eyelids,
such as Meibomian Gland
Dysfunction
Following eye surgeries such as
LASIK
Allergies
Infrequent blinking, associated with
staring at a computer (computer
vision syndrome) or video screens
Immune system disorders such as
Sjogren's Syndrome, Lupus and
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Thyroid disease when the eye
protrudes forward, or after
cosmetic surgery if the eyes are
opened too widely
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