Ask The Observer

Dry eye syndrome vary and may include stinging, burning or sensitivity to light, watery eyes, blurred vision, etc. In addition to these symptoms, dry eye disease may cause inflammation on the surface of the eye.

Your eyes need enough tears to stay healthy, comfortable and avoid dry eyes, so every factor affecting the quantity, or the quality of tear film can create dry spots on the eye surface, leading to irritation:^1,6

Low quantity of tears:

• Aging, changes in hormones, some medical conditions (diabetes, Sjogren's syndrome…), certain medications (blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, antidepressants), eye surgery, damaged tear gland

Increased evaporation of tears:

• Wind, smoke or dry air; reduced rate of blinking

Dysfunction of the oil glands in your eyelid

DED is not universal, it affects about 6.5 to 12% of population in Singapore, but with age, we all lose a bit of tear quantity and quality, which increases the risk of having dry eye.⁷ Therefore, people should use eye drops and provide eye vitamins to prevent dry eye syndrome.

In general dry eye is a chronic condition. In some cases it is possible to identify a cause that can be solved, such as refraining from taking certain medications, changing contact lenses frequently, etc., but in most of the cases you need to live with it.^1-2

If your vision fluctuates throughout the day or from one day to the other, and in addition your eyes feel irritated and scratchy, then you may have dry eye disease - DED. In more severe cases, it can cause alterations of the eye surface and subsequent loss of vision, so you should seek medical advice if you have doubts.^1-2

Artificial tears are physiological solutions based on polymers that retain water on the eye surface. They can improve both the quantity and quality of tears. Artificial tears are completely safe if not carrying any preservatives and be used correctly. It is important to note that artificial tears offer only temporary relief and do not treat the underlying disease. Please consult an ophthalmologist when symptoms do not abate or recur.^1-3

The bottled products with preservatives can be safely used up to 4-6 times a day. The single-use, preservative free artificial tears can be used up to 10 times a day. In any case, don’t overuse them. Follow the recommended dosage of the manufacturer.^1-3 Please consult an ophthalmologist if you have dry eye syndrome.

The link between digital device use and dry eye has been well established. Each eye blink restores the tear film that protects your eyes, but when you stare at a screen, you will tend to blink incompletely and less frequently. Therefore, your tear film becomes unstable and easily breakable, leading to dry eye disease. Try to reduce your screen time before it’s too late!^{1-2, 8}

If you have dry eye syndrome such as stinging, burning, sensitivity to light, or you think you have dry eye disease, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist to get your eyes examined.