Dry eye syndrome: What is it?

Dry eye syndrome is a fairly common problem in which the sufferer’s eye's literally "dry" out due to the inadequate function of their tear ducts.

All of us have tiny tear ducts built into our eyes. These produce tears and keep our eyes moist. There are various in-built tear mechanisms in our eye which regulate our tars in various ways. For instance, when there is little tear waiting to trickle out a single blink makes sure that the volume is spread all over the eye comfortably, when there is excess of it is easily flushed out into the nasal passage etc.

All these mechanisms are built in because the eye needs to be kept moist for proper functioning. Dry eye syndrome, therefore, interrupts the usual functioning of the eye primarily because it reduces the availability of moisture in the eye.

Causes
1. Age - With burgeoning age ones eyes tend to produce less of the oily ingredient of the tear, thereby causing the water to escape easily. The amount of water lost when on gets older therefore far exceeds the amount which is replenished and thus the eyes get dry easily.

2. Climate and Environment - a very hot climate is known to contribute to a dry eye problem. This is because excess heat doesn’t allow too much of moisture to remain in the air, this in turn keeps the tear ducts from producing moisture of its own.

3. Smoke - Nicotine smoke, car exhausts etc. can all worsen a Dry Eye problem.

4. Computer - Staring at a computer screen for too long can affect your eyes quite adversely. Dry eyes are only on of the many eye problems computers are known to cause.

Possible Prevention and Cure methods
1) Blink more often! Yes it might sound crazy but blinking as soon as your eyes feel a little dry can work wonders for keeping your eyes adequately moist.

2) Use medication. Tear drops, available at most medical outlets does the work which your eyes have trouble doing themselves. Pour a few drops into your eye every time they feel dry and get back to your work immediately, you will never know the difference again.

3) If you are working at the computer for too long take frequent breaks, say after every 20 minutes. Using an Anti-glare screen or spectacles might also help.

4) Watch your diet and remember to drink loads of water through the day.

5) In case of drastic conditions consider fitting in plugs into your eyes in order to prevent water from draining out.

6) But most importantly, consult a doctor he/she will tell you what you what you need to do for your particular case.