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Dry Eye Syndrome

Definition of Dry Eye Syndrome

  • DES can be associated with inflammation of the surface of the eye, the lacrimal gland, or the conjunctiva. DES is also associated with any disease that alters the components of the tears, increases the surface of the eyes as in thyroid disease when the eye protrudes forward, or cosmetic surgery. There are numerous causes of DES, including medications, autoimmune and other disorders, eye surgeries, allergies, workplace environments, eye injuries, and aging. DES can be temporary or chronic and, if left untreated, can lead to pain, ulcers or scars on the cornea, and in some cases loss of vision.

Cause of Dry Eye Syndrome

  • Dry eye syndrome is a multifactorial disease occurring on the tear membrane and ocular surface.

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

  • The eyes feel painful, irritated as if a grain of sand is present, and sometimes sore and prickling. The eyes also fatigue easily, cannot open well, feel more comfortable when closed, and the symptoms worsen if the eyes are open. Especially, tears form in winter when the face contacts a cold wind outside, and people sometimes even have a headache. The exposed eye surface is inflamed.
    A person with a dry eye syndrome will usually have one or many of these symptoms.