When the production of tears is scarce or the components are of poor quality, the tear film which is a delicate film that covers the eye’s outer surface deteriorates causing not proper eye lubrication.
The symptoms that may be perceived are eye redness or fatigue, burning, irritation, annoyance with contact lenses and, although it sounds paradoxical, watering, since the eye, before an irritation, produces a reflect secretion.
The main causes are the tear glands dysfunction or destruction secondary to another disease, or by external and personal conditions.
In women, dry eye occurs for reasons related to hormonal menopause. Women over 40 are more prone to this discomfort, so dry eye is less frequent in men or young people.
The environment is an important factor for this discomfort. Spaces with too much heat or excessively refrigerated, enclosed places, cigarette smoke, smog, dry climate sunny areas, or windy and environmental pollution are harmful conditions that impair the quality of our tears.
The consumption of certain drugs also produces dry eye. This occurs because there are drugs that decrease the body’s natural capacity to produce tears. Examples of these are the decongestants, antihistamines, antidepressants, sleeping pills, contraceptive and diuretics.
Chronic use of contact lenses or their use for many hours can also cause dry eye.
Some of the systemic diseases associated to this condition are lupus, arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome or pinkish. Blepharitis, or anatomical abnormalities of the eyelids due to senile or traumatic facial paralysis can also lead to dry eye.
The ophthalmologist may perform specific tests in order to indicate the treatment. In case of suspecting an associated disease, a consult with other specialists such as dermatologists or rheumatologists can be recommended for greater accuracy.
The most common therapeutic alternatives are artificial tears (eye drops, gel or ointment). In most severe cases, the passage of the tear must be blocked with silicone plug (Punctum Plug) inside the tear point, and if the suffering is very serious, surgery is suggested.
In health, one of the great secrets to prevent disease is to have good nutrition, take care of hygiene and avoid harmful environment. With healthy tips that follow, such as those we recommend, your eyes will be healthier longer.
Healthy eating:
We are what we eat. Food is our fuel which determines the quality of life of the organism and everything that is produced.
A diet that includes cold water fish such as salmon or sardines from blue waters, rich in vegetables, specially dark green color; vegetables and fruits, provides minerals antioxidants and vitamins A, E and C. It will also give the body Omega 3 and 6 which are unsaturated fatty acids, essential components for the proper functioning of the glands and the tear quality.
Good hygiene:
It is important to take care of the amount and quality of make up that is placed on the eyelids and, especially, do not forget to take it off at night.
Caring for the view:
If we work many hours with the sight set on a fixed point, the computer, or other type of screen; driving or reading, it is necessary to take frequent and short breaks to change the focus distance; blink or simply close your eyes for a few minutes.
Avoid harmful environments:
During sunny days use sun glasses with UV protection factor (400% UV). The most recommended is the wraparound sunglasses.
If it’s possible, avoid enclosed places full of cigarette smoke, especially if you suspect that you may suffer dry eye. In that case, consult the ophthalmologist immediately in order to have an accurate diagnosis and start the treatment that the doctor prescribes.
Specialists in Dry Eye: Dr. Adriana Lotfi and Dr. Juan Carlos Grandin.
