La eye dryness is due to an alteration in the tear film, i.e. the protective film that lubricates the outer portion of the eye, linked to poor tear production or excessive tear evaporation.
This disorder affects 1 in 7 people generally between the ages of 65 and 84, but can occur in any age group and more frequently in women.
Dry eye is the cause of several ocular discomfort which, in the most severe cases, can severely impact the quality of life of the affected person. Tears, in fact, play a crucial role in maintaining the wellbeing of our eyes, performing numerous functions. Tears in particular:
–lubricate and moisturise the corneawhich is the outermost part of the eye;
–nourish the cornea because they are rich in minerals, enzymes and substances necessary for healthy eyes;
–provide oxygen to the anterior portion of the eye;
-they develop aantibacterial actionprotecting the eye from infection.
What are the causes?
The causes of the onset of dry eye are numerous. In general may occur because of:
-one inflammatory state of the ocular surface;
–environmental factors (sensitivity to cigarette smoke; climatic conditions; presence of allergens);
–altered hormone levels;
-excessive use of contact lenses;
-long-term use of computer, smartphone or tablet;
-concomitance of certain diseases such as diabetes or thyroid-related diseases.
What are the symptoms?
The symptomatology of dry eye includes all those symptoms that are globally recognised as 'ocular discomfort'. They, in fact, include:
-bruising;
-sensation of having a foreign body inside the eye;
–pain and redness of the eyes;
–photophobiai.e. excessive sensitivity to light;
-difficulty opening the eyelid;
–blurred vision.
In addition, dry eye symptoms tend to increase in particular conditions such as in strong winds or in very dry or hot environments.
How is it diagnosed?
Dry eye syndrome is diagnosed during an eye examination where the quantity and quality of the tear film product. Commonly, the Schirmer test to measure the quantity of tears produced and the 'tear film break-up time' test to assess their quality.
How can one intervene?
The management of dry eye obviously depends on both the cause and the severity of the symptoms, and the goal of treatment is always to alleviate the symptoms. In milder cases, the most common remedy is the use of artificial tears or ointments to lubricate and moisturise the surface of the eye and are usually applied several times a day. If dry eye syndrome is associated with an infectious state or corneal complications, the ophthalmologist may prescribe the use of topical antibiotics or of anti-inflammatories.
Bibliography:
Mohammad-Ali Javadi et al. Dry Eye Syndrome. J Ophthalmic Vis Res 2011; 6 (3): 192-198.
Dr. Carmelo Chines
Direttore responsabile
English 
Italian