Skip to main content
Mother Nature AI
Eye & EarICD-10: H04.12Affects approximately 16 million diagnosed Americans; likely many more undiagnosed

Dry Eye Syndrome

Also known as: Dry Eyes, Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inflammation and damage to the eye's surface. It can cause significant discomfort and visual disturbance and tends to worsen with age, prolonged screen use, and certain medications. While chronic, dry eye syndrome can be effectively managed with a combination of artificial tears, lifestyle modifications, and medical treatments.

Symptoms

Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in the eyes
Feeling of something in your eyes (foreign body sensation)
Excessive tearing (paradoxical reflex tearing)
Blurred vision, especially during reading or screen use
Eye redness
Sensitivity to light
Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Eye fatigue
Stringy mucus in or around the eyes

Causes

  • Decreased tear production (aqueous-deficient dry eye)
  • Increased tear evaporation (evaporative dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction)
  • Aging (tear production decreases with age)
  • Medications (antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, HRT)
  • Autoimmune conditions (Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis)

Risk Factors

  • Age over 50
  • Female sex (hormonal changes, especially after menopause)
  • Extended screen time (reduced blink rate)
  • Contact lens wear
  • Dry, windy, or smoky environments
  • LASIK or other corneal refractive surgery

Diagnosis

  • Comprehensive eye examination
  • Schirmer test to measure tear production
  • Tear breakup time (TBUT) to assess tear film stability
  • Ocular surface staining with fluorescein or lissamine green
  • Meibography to evaluate meibomian gland structure

Treatment

  • Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops
  • Prescription anti-inflammatory drops (cyclosporine, lifitegrast)
  • Warm compresses and eyelid hygiene for meibomian gland dysfunction
  • Punctal plugs to retain tears on the eye surface
  • Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
  • Autologous serum tears for severe cases

Prevention

  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule when using screens (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
  • Use a humidifier in dry indoor environments
  • Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors
  • Stay well hydrated
  • Blink frequently, especially during computer work

When to See a Doctor

  • Eye discomfort or dryness persists despite over-the-counter artificial tears
  • You experience significant vision changes or eye pain
  • Symptoms affect your ability to work, read, or drive
  • You suspect a medication may be contributing to dry eyes

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Conjunctivitis

Eye & Ear

Cataracts

Eye & Ear

Allergic Rhinitis

Respiratory

Have questions about Dry Eye Syndrome?

Ask Mother Nature AI for personalized, evidence-based guidance.

Ask about Dry Eye Syndrome

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.