The outer surface of the eyeball must always be moistened. Lacrimal fluid is produced in the mucous membrane of the eye by special glands.

When the eye blinks, the tear is evenly distributed over the entire surface of the eye, forming a protective film. In the case when the production of tears decreases or its composition changes, dryness in the eyes develops.

Dry eyes is a subjective sensation that occurs due to a lack of moisture in the eyes. Most often, dry eyes occur in women.

Dry eyes - symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Feeling of burning and irritation
• Intermittent blurring or decreased visual acuity
• Increased tearing, especially when reading, driving, or watching TV
• The appearance of mucous, viscous discharge of a whitish color, especially in the morning
• Photophobia
• Inability to wear contact lenses

When should you urgently see a doctor?

The presence of these symptoms does not mean that you have dry eyes. However, if you have one or more of the symptoms listed, see an ophthalmologist immediately for a complete examination.

Causes of dry eyes

There are many reasons for this symptom:

Eye causes

• Refractive surgery (LASIK, keratoplasty, etc.) After surgery on the cornea, dryness in the eyes may develop.
• Eye drops. Many drugs that are instilled for a long time can cause this symptom - dry eyes. These include - steroid eye drops, drugs that reduce eye pressure.
• Chronic blepharitis. The reason for a significant percentage of dry eyes is an insufficient amount of fatty secretion, which is produced by the meibonian glands of the eyelids.

• Lagophthalmos. Incomplete closure of the eyelids due to aging and flabbiness of the muscles of the eyelids or as a complication after surgery on the eyelids (blepharoplasty)
• Prolonged wearing of contact lenses
• Pregnancy
• Vitamin A deficiency

Common diseases

Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, shingles, lead to a decrease in tear production and the development of dry eyes.

Hormonal changes

The hormonal changes associated with menopause is the main cause of dry eye development in women.

Ongoing medication

A wide range of medications can cause dry eyes (Diuretics, beta-blockers, sleeping pills, antidepressants, antihistamines).

Physical factors

Prolonged exposure to or exposure to harsh environmental conditions can lead to the development of dry eye.

Dry eye treatment

Dry eye syndrome is usually a chronic condition. In most cases, as a result of treatment, improvement and relief of the condition of the eyes occurs.

artificial tears

Artificial tears eye drops are similar in composition to our own tears. They moisten the eyes and help retain moisture.

Artificial tears are available without a prescription.

There are many options on the market, so you can try several to find the one you like best. With increased sensitivity of the mucous membrane of the eye and frequent instillation, it is recommended to use artificial tears without preservatives.

Temporary method of closing the tear ducts

The tear ducts are temporarily closed with special plugs. They block the tear duct and the tear film in the eye becomes more stable, reducing dryness. Tears simply evaporate from the surface of the eye.

gland massage

In case of chronic inflammation of the eyelids, with insufficient production of fatty secretion, massage of the meibonian glands is recommended.

What should absolutely not be done?

If symptoms of dry eye appear, do not:

• take any medications on your own
• instill vasoconstrictor eye drops without a doctor's prescription
• wear soft contact lenses

What happens if the symptom is not treated?

If the symptom of dry eyes is not treated, complications such as inflammation of the cornea, corneal ulcer, loss of vision may develop.

Treatment of dry eyes with folk remedies

Warm compresses. An alternative to massage are warm compresses on the eyelids to soften the secretion of the glands and facilitate its removal. Warm compresses are made from chamomile infusion.

Honey drops. In some cases, instillation of honey drops into the eye helps. Honey is bred with boiled in certain proportions.

This method has contraindications for use. Therefore, be sure to consult your ophthalmologist before using.

Dry eye prevention

If you have initial symptoms of dry eyes, the following steps should be taken to prevent them:

Blink more often

When using a computer, smartphone or other digital device, we tend to blink less. As a result, dry eyes may develop. Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently when using these devices. In addition, you can periodically fully compress the eyelids and close the eyes to renew the tear film.

Take frequent breaks while using your computer

Make it a habit to turn away from the screen every 20 minutes and stare at something that is at least away from your eyes for at least 20 seconds.

Following this simple rule will not only prevent the development of dry eyes, but also preserve your vision.

Avoid aggressive environmental factors

A person with dry eyes should avoid anything that can aggravate these symptoms. For example, being in an excessively hot room, in the wind. Smoking provokes the development of dry eyes.

Tears evaporate faster in a hot room, like any other liquid. You can take steps to prevent evaporation. In winter, during the heating season, be sure to use a humidifier.

Dry eye (dry eye syndrome) is a pathological condition in which there is insufficient moistening of the stratum corneum of the eye with tear fluid.

Basically, this problem occurs among the elderly, as well as people who spend a lot of time in front of a computer monitor or TV screen. People who wear contact lenses may experience dry eyes in an air-conditioned room, in windy weather, in very dry air, and in other bad circumstances.

Statistically, women are more prone to dry eyes than men. Of these, 8% occurs at the age of 50 - 60 years and 15% from 70 and older.

1. Age category. The older the person, the less secretion of tear fluid occurs. As a result of deficiency and violation of the composition of tears under the influence of various factors, dry eyes occur.
2. Medicines. Some medications, when used for a long time, can cause side effects in the form of dry eye syndrome. The main drugs caused by such an action include diuretics, antiallergic, psychotropic drugs, as well as some other eye drops.
3. Various diseases. Some diseases have such a symptom as dry eyes. For example, rheumatoid arthritis or Liebman-Sachs disease.
4. unfavorable factors. Certain conditions cause dry eyes. For example, strong wind, low or high air humidity, partial eyelid closure (thyroid disease), long work at the computer, long TV viewing, and others.
5. Inflammatory disease of the eyelids, developmental anomalies (lack of lacrimal glands).
6. Bad habits (drinking alcohol, smoking) and vitamin deficiency.
7. Hormonal changes in the body: menopause, pregnancy and lactation, contraception, endocrine diseases (diabetes).
8. Violation of the integrity of the cornea and eyelids as a result of trauma or surgery.
9. Unknown reason. In some individuals, tear production is impaired due to an unclear etiology.

Clinical picture of dry eye

The symptoms of dry eye vary and are determined by the severity of the disease. The main manifestations of the disease include:

• sensation of sand or a foreign body in the eye;
• swelling and redness of the sclera;
• pain and burning in the eyes;
• photophobia;
• tearing;
• decreased visual acuity, blurry vision of objects;
• general weakness and malaise;
• soreness when drops are instilled into the eyes.

Signs of dry eyes are more pronounced in the late afternoon, as well as when staying in a negative environment for the eyes.

Almost all people with dry eye syndrome have a reduced or absent tear film along the posterior edge of the lower eyelid. In their place is a cloudy and swollen connective membrane of the eye, advancing on the eyelid.

At times it happens that in patients it is possible to detect various components that clog the visual organ. These can be small blisters, very small lumps of mucus, traces of calved epithelial threads. These components are located at the transitions of the conjunctiva from the eyelid to the eyeball, in the layer of the tear film. You can see them under slit lamp illumination.

A frequent sign of dry eyes is a special discharge of the eyeballs. Due to the increased viscosity, it forms threads of mucus that cause discomfort in the eye.

Treatment of dry eye syndrome

For therapy to be beneficial, it is necessary to establish the cause of dry eye syndrome. If the disease arose as a result of adverse external factors, you just need to:

• ventilate the room as often as possible and carry out wet cleaning;
• take short breaks in working at the computer, and at this time do gymnastics for the eyes;
• visiting an ophthalmologist to replace or cancel the drug;
• visiting an endocrinologist to treat hormonal imbalance;
• use of humidifiers in rooms with dry air.

If dry eyes are haunting, you can use the following eye drops: Vizin, Sistane, Oksial, Oftagel, Natural tear and many others. They are also allowed for people who wear contact lenses.

Vizin - vasoconstrictor drops, widely used in ophthalmology. They also have the ability to relieve puffiness. They begin to act a minute after instillation and affect the vessels for 5-8 hours. The drug is practically not absorbed when used. Vizin must be instilled 2-3 times a day for 4 days, one drop in each eye. Contraindications: intolerance to the components of the drug, the age of children under 24 months, angle-closure glaucoma, epithelial degeneration of the stratum corneum.

Natural tear drops are designed to moisturize and protect the cornea. The drug increases the strength of the tear film, replenishes the lack of tears and moisturizes the stratum corneum. After instillation of 1-2 drops, the effect persists for 1.5 hours. In the absence of any action, the drug is discontinued. Contraindications: individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Oftagel is a cornea moisturizer. Due to its composition, the drug is able to form a protective film on the surface of the stratum corneum. With prolonged interaction with the cornea and tear film, it has a positive effect in reducing tear production. Instillation is carried out 1 drop 4 times a day. Contraindications: allergic reaction to the elements of the drug.

Oksial is a drug designed to moisturize the eyes. In addition to the main action, the drops have the ability to heal microdamages on the cornea and have a disinfectant property. Approved for use when wearing contact lenses. Does not have the ability to be absorbed when instilled. Drip 1-2 drops up to three times a day according to the instructions. According to the doctor's recommendations, more frequent instillation is indicated. Contraindications: manifestation of allergy to the components of oxial.

Systane is a combined drug belonging to the group of rehydrants. The drug begins to act almost immediately after instillation and acts throughout the day. According to the instructions, the product is instilled 1-2 drops as needed in each eye. With prolonged use, tear secretion disorder may occur. Contraindications: individual intolerance to the drug, prescribed with caution to children.

If additional symptoms are found, for example, hyperemia, swelling, purulent inflammation or peeling and spots on the eyelids, you need to visit a specialist soon, as these signs may indicate more dangerous eye diseases.

Traditional medicine to eliminate dry eye syndrome

1. Decoction of herbs chamomile, violet, pansies and rosemary. For cooking, you need 3-4 tablespoons of herbs per 300 ml of hot water. Leave for at least 60 minutes. It is necessary to wash the eyes several times a day until complete recovery.
2. In the absence of an allergic reaction to honey, honey compresses can be performed. To prepare the product, you need to dissolve a dessert spoon of honey in 3 full tablespoons of boiled water. Apply a compress to the eyeballs. Make a fresh solution the next day.
3. To achieve the secretion of tear fluid, mustard essential oil can be used. Usually they lubricate the eyelids.
4. Cut a fresh cucumber into thin slices and put on your eyelids. The vegetable perfectly relieves the symptoms of dry eyes, relieves the unpleasant condition with a feeling of coolness, and also reduces the number of wrinkles around the eyes.
5. When pain, itching and pain appear, you need to wet a cotton swab with tea leaves, wring it out a little and put it on your eyelids for 20 minutes. The tea leaves must be fresh, otherwise the effectiveness of the product will be lost. After that, it is recommended to do gymnastics for the eyes, lifting them up and down and looking right and left 10 times.
6. Grate fresh peeled potatoes on a fine grater. From the resulting slurry, it is necessary to squeeze the juice and put the mass on the eyelids for 15 minutes. Starch effectively eliminates the burning sensation and has an anti-inflammatory effect. For best results, you can add a few drops of dill juice to the gruel.

Dry eye is a condition that occurs when the outer surface of the eye is not sufficiently lubricated (moisturized) by the secreted tear fluid. With dryness, the patient feels a burning sensation, pain, irritation. Usually, elderly people fall into this situation, but recently the younger generation, who spend a long time at computer monitors, is increasingly feeling dryness.

Causes of dry eyes

Ophthalmologists have established many factors that can develop dryness and pain in the eyes. There are several classifications for their systematization, but the most used is considered to be dependent on the pathogenetic mechanism of the development of dry eye syndrome.

All causes of dry eye are divided into:

• factors that lead to a decrease in the state of stability of the tear precorneal film;
• pathologies in which the level of secretion of lacrimal fluid decreases.

Let us consider in detail both groups of causes of dry eye development.

Pathologies in which the level of tear fluid secretion decreases

The reasons that cause such pathologies a feeling of dryness in the eyes:

• diseases of the hematopoietic system (anemia, malignant tumors), - the connection of dryness in the eyes can develop in parallel with malignant diseases of the hematopoietic system;
• infectious diseases (typhus, tuberculosis, HIV, cholera), - with a long course of diseases of this group, a syndrome of general intoxication develops, when the reserves of the lacrimal gland are somewhat depleted and a mild dryness of the eyes sets in;
• endocrine disorders (diabetes mellitus, climacteric syndrome, hypothyroidism), - doctors have established the fact that the failure of this system is directly related to the disruption of the activity of many organs and systems, the visual system especially suffers when dryness in the eyes is a harbinger of the development of a more serious disease ;
• autoimmune diseases (complications after radiotherapy of neck and head cells, Sjogren's syndrome), - with such deviations, the cells of the immune system do not recognize their own tissues, because it perceives them as foreign, because of this, a pathological immune response develops, directed against healthy organs and tissues;
• skin diseases (herpetic dermatitis, ichthyosis, neurodermatitis), - with such ailments, the lacrimal glands are rarely affected, but all cases of the spread of rashes in the eye area in such cases have been recorded, which causes redness of the eyes and their dryness.

Factors that lead to a decrease in the state of stability of the tear precorneal film

The causes of irritation and dryness in the eyes include the following diseases and situations in this group:

• neuroparalytic keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea that reduces its sensitivity, in which the tear film breaks, and develops due to rare blinking;
• allergic conditions - when allergens enter the mucous membrane of the eye, the outflow of lacrimal fluid occurs, while the patient feels sand in the eyes and their dryness;
• scars of the conjunctiva and cornea, due to existing tuberosities after surgery or after foreign bodies get into the eye, the degree of tension of the corneal film decreases, which often leads to its rupture and dry eye syndrome;
• exophthalmos - protrusion of the eyeballs beyond the designated boundaries;
• lagophthalmos - a pathology when incomplete closure of the eyelids develops, because their sizes do not correspond to the size of the eye;
• stagnation of the tear fluid - this condition occurs when the outflow of tears is disturbed, and more particles of dust and bacteria appear in the fluid itself, which leads to redness, swelling and dryness of the eyes;
• the use of fans, air conditioners - dry eyes occur when the room temperature rises and air humidity decreases;
• prolonged work at the monitor - it has been found that this situation halves the frequency of blinking, causing excessive drying of the cornea;
• use of contact lenses, - violation of the rules for wearing (storage) lenses or their poor quality leads to the occurrence of dry eye syndrome;
• use of low quality cosmetics;
• polluted air - smoke, dust and other substances contained in the surrounding air irritate the mucous membrane of the eye, causing them to dry;
• pregnancy - the development of a dry eye is noted during this period due to a significant change in the hormonal background;
• side effects of certain pharmacological agents.

Diagnosing the Causes of Dry Eyes

Establishing the causes of dry eyes is a complex of sequential actions when all sources of information are used, the initial of which include the collection of an anamnesis and an objective examination. Then they resort to expensive instrumental and laboratory studies. In addition to these sources, Schirmer and Norn tests are established for a more objective diagnosis.

Norn test

Such an examination is performed to establish a stable state of the tear precorneal film. To do this, before the study, the patient is instilled with a solution of fluorescein in the upper eyelid, they are offered to blink.

After that, the eyes are examined in a slit lamp, for which the time between the rupture of the precorneal film and the opening of the eyelids is recorded. Under normal conditions, the gap varies from 10 to 23 seconds.

In order to determine the constant state of secretion of the lacrimal glands, the so-called Schirmer test is performed. The procedure looks like this: before the start of the study, a strip of filter paper measuring 50x5 mm is laid in the lower part of the eyelid (conjunctival sac).

The patient closes his eyes - from this moment the countdown begins. After 5 minutes, strips of paper are removed and the distance to which they are wetted is measured. Evaluation of the results will vary from the age of the patient: in young people, the length is 15 mm, in the older - 10 mm.

Laboratory research methods

Such studies help to finally put an end to determining the cause of dry eyes. Among the laboratory methods:

• tear fluid crystallography - when a drop of tear fluid is applied to a glass slide and then evaporated, after which microcrystals remain on the glass, allowing you to determine the type of eye disease (degenerative, inflammatory, tumor, etc.);
• cytology of a scraping or an imprint of the conjunctiva - when the resulting mass of material is placed on a glass slide and, dropping a drop of saline, is studied under a microscope;
• immunological analysis of blood and lacrimal fluid - with the help of such an analysis, the necessary treatment is prescribed.

Instrumental research methods

These research methods study the properties and structure of the lacrimal fluid, using modern technical medical devices and tools. Methods include:

• thiascopy - a microscopic examination of the tear precorneal film to study its structure, in which the thickness of its layers is first estimated, and then a conclusion is made about the stability of the film;
• determination of osmolarity is a method that determines the possibility of secondary drying of the tear film.

Treatment

How to get rid of dry eyes? Treatment of this syndrome consists of surgical and medical treatment. Both are aimed at eliminating the causes that caused this syndrome. Sometimes they resort to folk remedies, but there is a lot of controversy about their effectiveness.

Medical treatment

Exposure to pharmacological drugs is the first stage of treatment for dry eyes, its duration will depend on the course of the underlying disease. Drug treatment involves the use of:

• antibiotic agents as an integral component of a complex effect on dry eyes (drugs Gentamicin, Tetracycline, Tobramycin in the form of ointments);
• stimulants for the production of lacrimal substance - the most popular remedy for dry eyes is Pentoxifylline, used 3 times a day at a dose of 100 mg for 1.5-2 months;
• artificial tears - drugs to correct the lack of one's own tear fluid, most often used in the form of drops from a dry eye, as well as ointments and gels;
• anti-inflammatory hormonal and hormone-free agents, a group of drugs often practiced in medical practice for the systemic treatment of all pathologies of the organs of vision, whose action is aimed at blocking the inflammatory process (for example, drops from a dry eye containing indomethacin, framycetin, neomycin, diclofenac, ketorolac) ;
• metabolic drugs - the most common in this group, Dexpanthenol in the form of a gel and ointment, which are laid behind the lower eyelid, helps to enhance the regenerative properties of the body;
• antiviral drugs, whose spectrum in ophthalmology is small, mainly Acyclovir and Idoxuridin ointments;
• antiallergic drugs, whose antihistamine effect does not allow the development of an allergic process (drops from dry eyes Spersalerg and Azelastine),
• other medicines.

Surgery

How to treat dry eyes when medications have not had the desired therapeutic effect?

In such cases, resort to surgical exposure through the following interventions:

• implantation of additional lacrimal glands is a rather serious operation to transplant additional mucous glands from the mouth into the soft tissues of the eye, the success of which depends on the professionalism of the surgeon;
• clogging of the lacrimal ducts with special plugs or coagulation - such an operation is carried out to accumulate tear fluid in the vaults of the eyelids, due to which the cornea is washed with tears during the act of blinking;
• a decrease in the area of ​​​​evaporated tear fluid - this effect is achieved by narrowing the palpebral fissure by stitching the edges of the eyelids, usually such an intervention is resorted to after unsuccessful blockage of the lacrimal passageways;
• treatment of complications of dry eye syndrome - such an operation is performed in the presence of a deep corneal ulcer and is a transplant of healthy tissue flaps of the mucous membrane, conjunctiva, cartilage, and the effectiveness of the operation will depend on the depth of the defect, technical means, instruments and experience of the ophthalmologist surgeon.

Folk remedies for dry eyes

When establishing the "dry eye" syndrome, treatment may include the use of traditional medicine. In this case, it is necessary to know that such folk medicines cannot increase the amount of lacrimal fluid or change the organic defects of the eyes. Their ultimate effect is in the metabolic and antiseptic effect on the ocular epithelium. Consider some folk remedies.

1. Lotions from the infusion of marshmallow can reduce the severity of the inflammatory process and have a disinfecting effect. The infusion is prepared as follows: 3-4 tablespoons of crushed marshmallow root are poured into a glass of boiling water, kept for about 10 hours. Lotions on the eyes are done with cotton swabs every 2 hours.
2. An infusion of hop cones and blueberry leaves for the treatment of dry eyes is prepared in a similar way, but consumed orally, 3 sips 3 times a day, half an hour before meals.
3. Lotions from the infusion of wild rose also effectively relieve the inflammatory process in front of the eyes. It is better to prepare the infusion in a thermos, for which you take 150 gr. (dried) rose hips, pour boiling water (500 gr), cork for 8 hours. Make lotions for 30 minutes twice a day.
4. Washing the eyes with decoctions of calendula, sage and chamomile (100 g of a mixture of herbs per 300 g of boiling water) will significantly reduce pain in case of dry eyes, and taking a decoction of St. John's wort inside will help with severe purulent conjunctivitis.

Dry eye syndrome or simply dry eyes is a very common problem in the modern world. A tear moisturizes the eyeball, cleans it of bacteria and dust. When there are not enough tears in the eyes or they have an abnormal composition, dry eye syndrome (DES) can develop. Typical symptoms of this condition are eye irritation, "sand under the eyelids". Sometimes blurred vision - fog before the eyes, photophobia (photophobia), itching, feeling of fatigue and heaviness in the eyelids. The disease progresses at night because fewer tears are produced. In the morning it is difficult to open the eyelid.

Factors that cause dry eyes

What are the causes of dry eyes?

• conditioned air,
• chlorinated pool water
• hours of work on the computer...

Twenty years ago, the expression "dry eyes" would have caused bewilderment. Today it is widely known, in many offices this problem is often discussed, and many employees can be found with a bottle of artificial tears in their hands. Nevertheless, dry eye syndrome has overcome mankind not at all in connection with computers, as is commonly believed. This medical problem is much older than computer technology. The same sensations appear in the heat, in windy weather, due to frequent bathing in salt water. People have long thought of ways to protect themselves from irritating substances. This is how the Arabian keffiyeh appeared, which tightly, up to the very eyes, wrapped up the face of travelers in the Arabian desert and on the sands of the Persian Gulf. To protect the eyes from the scorching sun, wide-brimmed hats were created, and later dark glasses.

But, of course, in our time, the number of factors harmful to the eyes has increased. Air conditioning, computer and television screens, wearing contact lenses, frequent swimming in the pool contribute to the widespread dryness. People who often have to fly on an airplane and women who abuse eyeliners and eyeliners complain about dryness. All this reduces the production of natural tear fluid that moisturizes the eyeball. Dry eye syndrome can be recognized by the following symptoms: a feeling of sand or a foreign object in the eyes, redness, cramps, fatigue, a desire to close the eyelids, and when squinting, they seem sticky. Paradoxically, sometimes dryness is manifested by ... increased lacrimation. It is caused by irritation of the cornea and therefore does not bring endowment.

Recently, doctors are increasingly talking about a new eye disease - computer vision syndrome. It can develop in those who sit in front of the screen for a long time. People suffering from this syndrome complain of difficulty in looking from the monitor to distant objects, fatigue, redness and dryness in the eyes. Many find a way out in regularly instilling artificial tears. However, before buying a drug, it would be good to find out what caused the problem. And it can be explained not only by working with a computer.

List of Possible Causes of Dryness

The region of the eyeball is covered with a tear film, its most important function is to protect the eyes from drying out. It consists of three layers: fat layer, water layer and mucus layer. The pathomechanism of dry eye syndrome is most often associated with dysfunction of the first two layers or the secretion of the tear film. These disorders are most often caused by:

• Diabetes and other diseases

Not everyone knows that dry eyes can be a sign of a chronic disease. For example, diabetes. Or Sjögren's disease, an autoimmune disease little known to the general public. It most often occurs in women over 50 years of age. According to statistics, every hundredth woman of this age suffers from Sjögren's disease. The second name of this disease - dry syndrome - speaks for itself: patients complain of dryness not only of the eyes, but also of the skin, as well as a constant feeling of dryness in the mouth, nose and genitals. Sjögren's disease is treated not by eye doctors, but by rheumatologists.

• The onset of menopause

Hormonal changes in the female body during menopause can also cause dry eyes.

• Medications

Dry eyes can be a side effect of allergy, hypertension, and Parkinson's medications, as well as antidepressants. Sometimes birth control pills cause it. Such drugs for the treatment of hypertension (diuretics, alpha-blockers) and coronary heart disease (beta-blockers), antiarrhythmic drugs, analgesics, antihistamines, drugs used in the treatment of ulcers, oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants and psychotropic drugs , carbonic anhydrase inhibitors for the treatment of glaucoma - all of these drugs contribute to the development of DES.

• Contact lenses

For some people, wearing lenses causes recurring eye inflammation and allergic reactions that reduce tear production. In addition, the lens does not allow moisture to be distributed over the entire surface of the eyeball, which also contributes to the development of dryness. Most often, dry syndrome is associated with soft lenses: the materials from which they are made absorb some of the moisture emitted by the eye. The exception is a new generation of silicone hydrogel lenses. Today, pharmacies have special drops for moisturizing the eyes with contact lenses.

• sleep deprivation

People who get less than 7-8 hours of sleep develop dry and irritated eyes more often than those who get enough sleep.

• Eyeliners and eyeliners

Our eyelids are equipped with tiny sebaceous glands that produce invisible, but very necessary fat for the eyes. It protects the moisture from evaporating too quickly. The ducts of the fatty glands are located at the very eyelashes. By drawing a line on the inside of the eyelid with an eyeliner or pencil, women run the risk of causing blockage of these glands. That is why it is not recommended to use this method too often, and even more so in hot weather, when the cosmetics on the face melt.

• Insufficient blinking

Sometimes, when a person is very focused, he forgets to blink. Sitting in front of a computer or TV screen for long periods of time causes a 60 percent reduction in blink rate. Blinking is necessary for the secretion of tears, which, due to their composition, do not allow the eyes to dry out. Therefore, before grabbing drops of artificial tears, you can take this simple measure: just force yourself to blink more often.

• Working conditions

Prolonged work with a computer in an air-conditioned room is one of the most common causes of discomfort in the eyes. In addition, those whose work is associated with constant contact with dust are at risk of earning DSG. People who work in the wind or in the open sun also suffer from increased dryness in the eyes.

• Age

Alas, over the years, our body begins to “save” energy on the production of moisture. Older people have drier skin and produce less saliva and tear fluid.

• Sleep with open eyes

Dry eyes also occur in those who, without noticing it, sleep with their eyes open. Such people should apply an ointment before going to bed that enhances tearing.

• Insufficient production of tears

In its extreme form, tear deficiency can cause corneal clouding. The cornea is lined with epithelial cells that protect tissues from harmful environmental factors. Extreme dryness leads to the defeat of these cells, and the cornea is left without protection. In mild cases, it's all about pain, redness, and blurry vision, and in severe cases, it can lead to blindness.

• Eyelid massage

With pain in the eyes, we reflexively reach for them and three eyelids. This simple action often has the desired effect. Firstly, it helps us to blink well, and blinking, as you already know, increases the production of moisture. Secondly, this kind of massage cleanses the sebaceous glands near the eyelashes. They are freed from particles of sweat, grease, cosmetics and secrete substances that improve eye hydration.

• Warm compress

Since ancient times, women have put wet cotton swabs on their eyelids to “clear their eyes”. This ancient measure helps in our time. A warm compress expands the sebaceous ducts at the tips of the eyelashes, liquefies the thickened tear fluid and thereby moisturizes the eyeballs.

• Cleansing from cosmetics

All experts unanimously advise: do not go to bed with painted face! Not washed off cosmetics spoils not only the skin, but also the condition of the eyes. The habit of leaving mascara on your eyelashes overnight can lead to blockage of the sebaceous glands and inflammation of the eyelids.

Dry eye symptoms

Dry eye symptoms are caused by irritation of the cornea, which is not protected by the tear film. Initially minor symptoms become stronger over time. Common patient complaints include:

• sensation of a foreign body or sand under the eyelids,
• burning,
• conjunctival hyperemia,
• eye fatigue,
• eyelid irritation,
• Red eyes,
• photosensitivity,
• secretion of mucus that accumulates in the outer corners of the eye

Dry eye symptoms usually worsen in the evening, but they can also occur in the morning, right after waking up. Discomfort due to insufficient hydration of the eyeball is also aggravated by driving, staying in air-conditioned rooms, spending long hours watching computer monitors or watching TV. Patients with more advanced chronic diseases may experience visual disturbances, eye pain, and photophobia. Paradoxically, in the early stages of the disease, in response to light, pain or emotional stimulation, a tear (so-called crocodile tears) can develop.

Diagnosis of dry eye syndrome

When you visit your ophthalmologist, your doctor will run 2 tests to help diagnose DES.


Schrimer test
This test measures how many tears are produced by the eye in 5 minutes. The ophthalmologist puts a tissue strip under the lower eyelid of the right and left eyes. It has a scale with divisions of 5 millimeters. Next, you need to wait 5 minutes until the fabric is saturated with tears. If it is wetted by 15 mm, the eye is well moistened. A result of 6 to 14 mm falls within the normal range (but obliges us to see a doctor more often), and less than 5 mm proves that too few tears are being produced.
Tear test
In addition, you need to check the quality of tears, i.e. determine how long a tear remains on the surface of the eyeball. An ophthalmologist injects a special dye into the conjunctival sac. Illuminating the eyeball with a beam of blue light, he asks to blink, and then from that moment on, you cannot blink. The doctor measures the time between the last blink and the appearance of spots on the surface of the eyeball where there is no more dye. If the dye comes out too quickly, this indicates that the tear film remains on the eyes for too short a time to moisturize well. When the time is over 10 seconds, everything is ok. If it is shorter, the patient suffers from dry eye syndrome.

Treatment

Lacrimal stimulants

You can see your doctor for a prescription for artificial tears, an ointment that replaces tear fluid, or a drug that stimulates tears. Today, most experts are sure that drops with artificial tears should not contain preservatives, as these substances harm the cornea. The most reliable drops are those that both adults and children can use. Another sign of reliability: the absence of restrictions on the frequency of instillation during the day.

Humidifier

In case of severe dry eyes, it is recommended to turn on a humidifier in the room. If this is not possible, place a decorative dish or vase in the room and fill it with fresh water every day. You can put colored stones or floating candles in this vase - it is good for the eyes and pleasing to the eye.

Air conditioner

If you are sitting in front of an air conditioner (whether at work or in a car), make sure that the air stream is not directed directly at your face.

New Treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome

One of the newest treatments is to close the tear ducts. The procedure takes several minutes. After the introduction of eye drops, the ophthalmologist applies microscopic nozzles. The mouth of the channel is located on the edge of the lower eyelid, so it is easy for the doctor to get there. Each eye has 2 tear ducts: superior and inferior. Usually it is enough to make a correction in the lower part.
Depending on the severity of symptoms and disease, doctors may apply temporary caps. They are made of hydrogel, collagen or synthetic material and slowly (1-12 weeks) dissolve in the tear ducts.
Fixed plugs are chosen in more severe cases or when dry eyes are caused by systemic conditions such as diabetes, collagenosis, thyroid disease. A durable cork can be worn for several years and even a lifetime.
In the center of the plug are small holes that ensure the normal functioning of the tear ducts. Tears come out and evaporate less, so that the eyeball is better moisturized.

Feeling of sand in the eyes, burning, itching... It is impossible to wear contact lenses and work at the computer for a long time... And special eye drops give only short-term relief...

More and more city dwellers suffer from dry eyes. A visit to an ophthalmologist will help you understand what causes dry eyes, the reasons for this phenomenon are different.

If, in addition to the eyes, other mucous membranes suffer from dryness, in particular, the oral cavity, it is worth being examined for Schöngren's syndrome. This, although not common, but quite a serious autoimmune disease.

Much more often, the cause of dry eyes is excessive eye strain while reading or excessive computer work, vitamin A deficiency.

How to get rid of dry eyes folk methods? Here are traditional medicine methods that can help you.

Dry eyes: folk remedies.

Alternative treatment of dry eyes can be started only if you have previously consulted with your doctor. As a treatment, the doctor may advise taking omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin A (which you need to be careful with, since an overdose is toxic).

Preparations are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids: they contain the required amount of docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids.

If you have been suffering from irritation and dry eyes for more than 5 days, traditional medicine treatment is one of the options for eliminating these unpleasant symptoms. Sometimes redness of the eyes is added to the feeling of dryness, then it is possible to discuss with a homeopathic doctor the possibility of using aconite preparations. If you often feel a burning sensation in the eyes - belladonna preparations.

According to Ayurvedic medicine, all the symptoms that characterize dry eye syndrome are the result of an imbalance in one of the 3 main physical energies known as "doshas". Increased vata dosha leads to dryness of the body, including dryness and eyes.

Try to eat regularly to restore the balance of vata. Eat at least 3 times a day, do not endure hunger.

Ayurveda recommends treating dry eyes with a two-phase wash: mix a teaspoon of triphala powder in a glass of clean water and leave to infuse overnight. By morning, the water in the glass will turn amber, and sediment will appear at the bottom.

Carefully draw liquid from a glass into a pipette and drip into the eyes. After waiting a minute, put liquid ghee in your eyes, then gently pat your eyes dry with a clean towel.

According to Chinese medicine, the eyes are governed by the liver meridian. An imbalance in the liver, namely a deficiency of hepatic blood, can be the cause of dry eyes.

In order to correct this imbalance, one should start with regular sessions or acupuncture. Herbal treatment will also help.

Deep relaxation and regular exercise can also have a positive effect on dry eye syndrome.

But most importantly - follow a healthy diet.

To normalize the functioning of the liver, you should eat more boiled grains such as barley and rice, more boiled green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli), orange and yellow vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, etc.), red foods (tomatoes, beets), and necessarily protein foods: eggs, beef, chicken, fish.