Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tear film does not remain stable on the eye’s surface. It can be temporary or persistent. In Kuwait, air conditioning, heat, dust and long hours on digital screens may worsen symptoms, but dry eye can also be linked to eyelid problems, medicines and medical conditions.
What does dry eye feel like?
Symptoms may include burning, stinging, redness, itching, light sensitivity, a gritty or foreign-body sensation, mucus, tired eyes and blurred vision that changes with blinking. Surprisingly, watery eyes can also be a sign: irritation may trigger reflex tears that do not have the balanced composition needed to protect the surface well.
Common causes and risk factors
Tear production can decrease with age and may be affected by hormonal changes. Tears may also evaporate too quickly when oil-producing eyelid glands do not work properly. Blepharitis, contact lenses, previous eye surgery, incomplete eyelid closure and prolonged screen use can contribute. Some allergy, cold, depression and blood-pressure medicines may worsen dryness, as can diabetes, thyroid disease and autoimmune conditions. Do not stop medication without speaking to your doctor.
How screen use affects the eyes
People blink less frequently and sometimes less completely while concentrating on a screen. This allows tears to evaporate. Follow the 20-20-20 habit: about every 20 minutes, look roughly 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Position the screen slightly below eye level, take regular breaks and avoid direct airflow from fans or air conditioners.
How is dry eye diagnosed?
An ophthalmologist examines the eyelids, tear film, cornea and surface of the eye. Tests may assess tear quantity, tear breakup, inflammation and damage to the surface. Identifying the type and cause matters because not every patient benefits from the same drops.
Treatment options
Mild symptoms may improve with appropriate lubricating drops, environmental changes and eyelid care. Preservative-free products may be considered when drops are used frequently. Depending on the cause, the doctor may recommend warm compresses, eyelid hygiene, prescription anti-inflammatory drops, treatment of eyelid glands, punctal plugs or management of an underlying condition. Avoid relying on redness-relief drops for chronic symptoms unless advised.
When should you see an eye doctor?
Book an examination if symptoms persist, you use drops repeatedly, contact lenses become uncomfortable or vision fluctuates. Seek urgent eye care for sudden vision loss, severe pain, marked light sensitivity, injury, chemical exposure or a very red eye with nausea or headache.
Dry eye is often manageable once its cause is identified. A personalized eye examination is the safest way to protect comfort and vision. This article is for general education and is not a diagnosis.