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Dry eye disease happens when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tear film does not work properly. The TFOS DEWS II report describes dry eye as a condition involving tear-film imbalance, discomfort, inflammation and possible damage to the eye surface. Read the medical report here: TFOS DEWS II dry eye report.
Dry eye does not always feel like dryness. Some people feel burning. Some feel grittiness, like dust or sand in the eye. Others have redness, watering, blurred vision, heaviness or tired eyes.
Watery eyes can also be a sign of dry eye. When the eye surface is irritated, the eyes may produce reflex tears. These tears may not stay on the eye surface long enough to solve the real problem.
Common causes include long screen time, contact lens use, ageing, air conditioning, pollution, certain medicines, eyelid problems and health conditions such as autoimmune disease.
Screen use can make dry eye worse because people blink less while looking at a phone or computer. Taking breaks, blinking fully and adjusting screen height may help.
Contact lens users should not ignore dryness. Continued lens use during irritation may worsen discomfort or increase the risk of infection. Lens type, cleaning method and wearing time may need review.
Do not use random eye drops for weeks without advice. Some drops may not suit your eye condition. Some people need preservative-free lubricants, eyelid care, allergy treatment, anti-inflammatory treatment or other specialist care.
For readers looking for eye-care support, Phiroze M. Dastoor & Co. provides information about personalised eye examination and dry-eye-related care.
Dry eye is common, but it should not be dismissed when symptoms are frequent or affect daily life.
Medical note: Seek urgent eye care for severe pain, sudden vision loss, eye injury, light sensitivity, pus-like discharge or a red painful eye.
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