Dry Eyes are a result of insufficient production of tears in the outer layer of the eye surface. As a result the eyes feel burning, stinging or scratchy. Tears help to keep the eye moist...

Dry Eyes are a result of insufficient production of tears in the outer layer of the eye surface. As a result the eyes feel burning, stinging or scratchy. Tears help to keep the eye moist and lubricated. Fewer tears are produced as the age advances. Dry eyes are a problem which is more commonly faced by women than men. This is due to the hormonal changes that occur in women at the time of menopause. Many people complain that their eyes feel dry. Dry eyes are also known as Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or Xeropthalmia.

Causes of Dry, Itchy Eyes: Some of the common causes are-

1. different allergens causing allergies like dust, smoke, pollen or spore molds in the atmosphere

2. certain medications such as antihistamines, oral acne medicines or hormone replacement therapy

3. disease such as Sjogren’s disease

4. the natural aging process

5. wearing contact lenses for a long time

6. dry environment

Symptoms

1. Excessive rubbing and tearing of the eyes
2. Irritation and burning sensation in the eye
3. Repetitive blinking of the eyelids
4. Gritty sensation in the eye
5. Low work quality and overall poor psychological health
6. Light sensitivity
7. Blurred vision
8. Irritation from the air, wind or smoke from the environment

Diagnosis of dry eyes- Dry eyes are diagnosed with the help of a simple test, the Schirmer test. It is used to measure the production of tears. In this test filter paper strips are put in the lower eyelid to measure the tear production rate.

Treatment- Artificial tears are very commonly used to treat dry and itchy eyes. They are used to moisten and lubricate the eye the whole day, giving a soothing effect to the eye. You can use an ointment during bed time, if you have difficulty in opening the eyes in the morning when you are awake.

Overall things you can do to avoid dry, itchy eyes are:

* Drinking plenty of water

* Using humidifiers in and around your workplace

* Including adequate substitutes of Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin B6 in your diet

* If you are using eye drops, they should be free of preservatives, and include Vitamin A.

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