Dear Reader,

Tear production tends to decrease as you get older, and decreased production destabilizes the tear film, creating dry spots on the surface that irritate the eye and reduce vision. Some people produce a normal amount of tears, but the composition of their tear fluid is of poor quality. The tears lack essential components for eye lubrication. Eyelid problems also can cause dry eyes.

The medical term for dry eyes is keratoconjunctivitis sicca. The condition usually affects both eyes at the same time. Signs and symptoms include a stinging, burning or scratchy sensation, swelling, redness, and stringy mucus in or around the eyes. You may also experience eye fatigue and increased sensitivity to light.

Dry eyes are associated with certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren’s syndrome. Dry eyes don’t usually cause permanent vision damage, but the condition is uncomfortable, prompting people to seek treatment.

Treatment goals for dry eyes are to restore a more normal tear film and to minimize the consequences of dryness.

Adding tears. A mild case of dry eyes can often be treated with artificial tears sold over the counter. Use the lubricating drops as needed to provide relief. Preservative-free eye drops work best.
Medications. The medication cyclosporine (Restasis) may be prescribed to treat chronic dry eyes. It reduces inflammation on the surface of your eyes. Some people experience a burning sensation in their eyes when using the drug. Other medications that reduce eyelid inflammation, lubricate your eyes or help stimulate tear production may also be recommended.
Conserving tears. This procedure involves partially or completely closing your tear ducts with tiny, removable silicone plugs that help retain fluid by keeping tears from leaving the eye too quickly. In a more permanent option, a surgeon uses heat to shrink tissue at the opening of the tear duct, causing scarring that closes the duct.
Special contact lenses. Ask your eye doctor about newer contact lenses designed to help people with dry eyes. Some people with severe dry eyes may opt for special contact lenses that protect the surface of the eyes and trap moisture. These are called scleral lenses or bandage lenses.
Light therapy and eyelid massage. A technique called intense-pulsed light therapy followed by massage of the eyelids may help some people with severe dry eyes.