Dry Eyes

Dry Eye

Experience Relief from Dry Eyes at Al-Noor Eye Hospital

At Al-Noor Eye Hospital, we offer advanced treatments and personalized care for dry eyes. Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring your comfort, from diagnosis to treatment, providing accessible and affordable services that prioritize your eye health.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome, commonly referred to as dry eyes, is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to irritation and discomfort. This condition can cause a gritty sensation, stinging, or burning in the eyes and can significantly affect your quality of life.

Tears play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and providing clear vision. They lubricate the eye, reduce the risk of eye infection, wash away foreign matter, and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear. When tear production and drainage are not in balance, it can lead to dry eyes, causing discomfort and potential damage to the eye’s surface.

At Al-Noor Eye Hospital, our specialized team is here to help you find relief from dry eyes with personalized treatment plans designed to restore comfort and protect your vision.

Causes of Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can be caused by various factors, including aging, environmental conditions, and certain medical conditions. Common causes include:

Aging: Tear production tends to diminish as you age. Dry eyes are more common in people over 50.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to smoke, wind, and dry climates can increase tear evaporation, leading to dry eyes. Extended use of contact lenses or prolonged periods of staring at computer screens can also contribute to this condition.
Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders are associated with dry eyes. Additionally, eyelid problems that prevent the proper distribution of tears can also lead to dryness.

Common Symptoms

Dry eyes can present with a variety of symptoms that range from mild to severe. These may include:

A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes
Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Redness of the eyes
A feeling of having something in your eyes
Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Difficulty with nighttime driving
Watery eyes, which is the body’s response to the irritation of dry eyes
Blurred vision or eye fatigue

Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing dry eyes, including:

Age: Individuals over 50 are more likely to experience dry eyes.
Gender: Women are more prone to dry eyes, particularly after menopause due to hormonal changes.
Diet: A diet low in Vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids can increase the risk.

Prolonged Screen Time: Staring at a computer or mobile screen for extended periods without blinking reduces tear production.

Dry Eye Diagnosis

If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eyes, it’s important to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive examination. The diagnosis involves several tests to evaluate the quantity and quality of tears produced, as well as the health of the tear-producing glands.

Common diagnostic tests include:

Schirmer Test: Measures tear production using a strip of paper placed under the lower eyelid.
Tear Breakup Time: Assesses how long it takes for tears to evaporate from the eye surface.
Osmolarity Test: Measures the composition of tears to determine dryness.
Staining Test: Special dyes are used to observe the condition of the eye’s surface.

Dry Eye Treatment

The treatment of dry eyes focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Options include:

Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can relieve mild cases of dry eyes.
Prescription Eye Drops: Medications like cyclosporine can increase tear production and reduce inflammation.
Lifestyle Changes: Adjusting your environment, such as using a humidifier or taking breaks during extended screen use, can help alleviate symptoms.
Punctal Plugs: These small devices are inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too quickly, helping to keep the eyes moist.
Meibomian Gland Expression: A procedure to unblock the oil glands in the eyelids, which are essential for producing the oily layer of tears that prevents evaporation.

Benefits of Treatment

Effective treatment can significantly improve your comfort and quality of life. After treatment, you should experience:

Reduced dryness and irritation
Improved comfort during daily activities
Better tolerance for contact lenses and screen use
Enhanced overall eye health