Ocular dryness is one of the most frequent causes of consultation with the specialist, affecting about 20% of the population
Dry Eye. What is it?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes are not able to maintain a quality tear film. When there is an alteration in the ocular surface (eyelids, cornea and conjunctiva), it has insufficient ocular hydration, causing discomfort such as foreign body sensation, irritation, itching and other problems related to vision.
Dry Eye Symptoms
The symptoms of dry eye syndrome are varied causing:
Sandy or foreign body sensation on the ocular surface.
Burning, itching or redness in the eye.
Blurry visión.
Lachrymation.
Heaviness in the eyelids.
Sensitivity to light.
These symptoms usually worsen in dry environments, with air conditioning or heating and with wind.
People with dry eyes often tend to have watery eyes. This is because in ocular dryness, the eye responds by increasing the volume of tears. Those who suffer from dry eye may feel that they can not keep their eyes open for long. They may also feel that their eyes are not comfortable after reading or watching television.
Why does dry eye occurs?
The most common risk factors for the development of dry eye are:
Use of computers or screens
Use of contact lenses
Refractive surgery
Refractive surgery
Substitutive therapy in menopause
Low relative humidity
Drugs (antidepressants, antiserotoninergic, …)
Instability in the tear film, due to a decrease in tear production or an increase in tear evaporation, can cause damage to the epithelium causing inflammation (due to hyperosmolarity – increased concentration of own substances in the tear due to a decrease in the amount of tear) and finally the dry eye syndrome.
Dry eye treatment
The treatment of dry eye syndrome is done through a multiple and prolonged approach to the disease. It will be noted the use of artificial tears as the main element to stabilize, hydrate and lubricate the ocular surface. The ideal artificial tear should lubricate, protect and facilitate the recovery of the ocular surface, not alter vision, be sterile, non-toxic, with high residence time and without preservatives.
DRY EYE TEST
BrillPharma’s test to determine the degree of ocular dryness of patients and determine the most indicated product.
Artificial tears
Currently the main asset most used in artificial tears is hyaluronic acid, a natural component present in tear, with high lubrication capacity and protection of the ocular surface in patients with dry eye syndrome. The length of the chain of hyaluronic acid is very important, since the long chains of hyaluronic acid provide greater lubrication and greater permanence of the tear in the eye, significantly reducing the symptoms of dry eye.
It is recommended the use of eye drops without preservatives to avoid future complications in the corneal surface, especially in the case of patients with severe dry eye since they require more frequent instillations.
In more serious cases, the treatment must be accompanied by other therapeutic measures such as palpebral hygiene or topical anti-inflammatory treatments, always under the control of a specialist.
Artificial tears
Currently the main asset most used in artificial tears is hyaluronic acid, a natural component present in tear, with high lubrication capacity and protection of the ocular surface in patients with dry eye syndrome. The length of the chain of hyaluronic acid is very important, since the long chains of hyaluronic acid provide greater lubrication and greater permanence of the tear in the eye, significantly reducing the symptoms of dry eye.
It is recommended the use of eye drops without preservatives to avoid future complications in the corneal surface, especially in the case of patients with severe dry eye since they require more frequent instillations.
In more serious cases, the treatment must be accompanied by other therapeutic measures such as palpebral hygiene or topical anti-inflammatory treatments, always under the control of a specialist.
TIPS for dry eye disease
Artificial tears
The periodic use of artificial tears based on long chain hyaluronic acid, reduces the feeling of discomfort associated with dry eye.
Frequent Blinking
Frequent blinking to evenly distribute the tear and keep the ocular surface hydrated. A decrease in blinking favors the appearance of dry eye.
Humidity
Stay away from dry environments and increasing the level of environmental humidity present in work and home areas. The use of humidifiers in winter is recommended.
Periodic Breaks
Perform periodic vision breaks when using the computer and / or other screens for long periods of time.
Appropriate glasses
Use of sun glasses to reduce exposure to sun and wind (environmental factors that increase eye dryness).
Nutritional supplements
Use of nutritional supplements rich in omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) as well as minerals, antioxidants and vitamins.