Dry Eye, also referred to as Dry Eye Syndrome or Dry Eye Disease, is a prevalent condition that can affect individuals of all ages. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears produced are of poor quality, leading to inadequate lubrication of the eye’s surface. This lack of proper moisture can result in discomfort and painful symptoms.

Dry Eye is considered a multifactorial condition, meaning it typically develops due to a combination of factors. The main risk factors for Dry Eye include:

• Aging and hormonal changes
• Environmental influences, such as air conditioning in cars, offices, and airplanes
• Poor nutrition and dehydration
• Prolonged use of digital devices (smartphones, tablets, or computers), which reduces blinking
• Wearing contact lenses
• Previous eye surgeries
• Medical conditions like Diabetes and Sjögren’s Syndrome
• Use of antihistamines and other medications

When you visit your eye doctor, they will be able to assess the severity of your condition. Dry Eye can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe, and understanding the severity is essential for selecting the right product to provide effective relief when symptoms occur.

The severity of your Dry Eye will be evaluated through a questionnaire and various tests that help assess the overall health of your eyes. While symptoms can vary depending on several factors, the most commonly experienced signs include:

• A sensation of dryness and irritation in the eyes
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Discomfort or irritation when wearing contact lenses
• A feeling that something is stuck in your eye
• Burning or itching sensations
• Excessive tearing or watery eyes

Dry Eye can generally be divided into two main types: Evaporative Dry Eye and Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye. Evaporative Dry Eye is the more common form, affecting approximately 80% of Dry Eye patients.
Identifying which type of Dry Eye you have is crucial, as each type requires a different treatment approach to effectively manage symptoms and provide relief.

Evaporative Dry Eye occurs due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), which results in a deficiency of the lipid (oily) layer of the tear film. When the oily layer is compromised, tears evaporate more quickly, leaving the eye surface exposed and causing discomfort and pain.

Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye , on the other hand, is primarily caused by a lack of sufficient watery tears to keep the eye adequately lubricated. Aging is a major factor contributing to Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye, but it can also be exacerbated by certain medications or medical conditions that disrupt the body’s normal physiological balance.