Dry Eye: Causes, Treatment, and Long-Term Care

Dry Eye Syndrome, also known as ocular surface disease, is a common yet often overlooked condition that significantly impacts quality of life. It occurs due to insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, leading to discomfort that can worsen if left untreated. At Al-Ahli Hospital, Dr. Hind and her team in the Ophthalmology Department specialize in accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment to ensure lasting relief and optimal eye health.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining a healthy eye surface and clear vision.

Common Symptoms

• Persistent dryness and irritation
• A gritty sensation or feeling of something in the eye
• Redness or inflammation
• Blurred vision or difficulty focusing
• Sensitivity to light

“Dry eye is not just a minor inconvenience; if untreated, it can lead to serious complications,” explains Dr. Hind.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Several factors contribute to dry eye, including environmental, lifestyle, and medical conditions:

• Environmental Factors: Wind, smoke, or dry climates can cause rapid tear evaporation
• Digital Eye Strain: Prolonged screen use reduces blinking, leading to tear evaporation
• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age, especially after 50
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, or oral contraceptives can impact tear production
• Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics may contribute to dryness
• Underlying Health Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus can cause chronic dry eye
• Contact Lens Use: Long-term contact lens wear can reduce tear film quality and increase dryness

How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?

At Al-Ahli Hospital, our team uses cutting-edge tools to identify the root cause of dry eye:

• Tear Break-Up Time Test (TBUT): Measures how quickly tears evaporate
• Schirmer’s Test: Assesses tear production using a small strip under the eyelid
• Fluorescein Staining: Highlights areas of eye damage caused by dryness
• Meibomian Gland Evaluation: Examines the function of glands responsible for tear film stability

Advanced Dry Eye Treatment at Al-Ahli Hospital

Treatment is tailored to each patient based on severity and underlying causes.

Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds
• Use a humidifier to maintain indoor moisture levels
• Wear protective eyewear to shield against wind and dry environments

Artificial Tears & Prescription Drops:

• Over-the-counter lubricating drops for mild cases
• Prescription eye drops like Restasis or Xiidra to reduce inflammation and boost tear production

Punctal Plugs:

• Small, dissolvable plugs inserted into tear ducts to prevent tear drainage and retain moisture

Meibomian Gland Therapy:

• Warm compresses or LipiFlow therapy to unclog oil-producing glands and enhance tear film quality

Omega-3 Supplements:

• Increasing intake of Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) can improve tear quality and reduce inflammation

Advanced Therapies for Severe Cases:

• Serum Eye Drops: Made from the patient’s blood to promote healing in extreme cases
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: Reduces inflammation and improves gland function

Comprehensive Dry Eye Care at Al-Ahli Hospital

• Personalized Treatment Plans: Designed based on the patient’s condition and contributing factors
• Regular Follow-ups: Continuous monitoring to adjust treatment and prevent recurrence
• Patient Education: Guidance on lifestyle changes and preventive measures for long-term eye health

Preventing Dry Eye: Expert Tips from Dr. Hind

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support tear production
• Take Breaks from Screens: Reduce digital strain and blink frequently
• Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses or protective eyewear in harsh conditions
• Eat a Healthy Diet: Incorporate Omega-3-rich foods for better tear quality
• Review Medications: Consult your doctor about drugs that may contribute to dryness

Why Choose Al-Ahli Hospital?

• Expertise: Led by Dr. Hind, our ophthalmology team has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating dry eye
• Advanced Technology: We use the latest diagnostic tools and treatment methods for precise and effective care
• Personalized Care: Every patient receives a tailored treatment plan to meet their specific needs
• Comprehensive Support: From diagnosis to long-term care, we provide continuous guidance for lasting relief

“Don’t let dry eye affect your quality of life,” says Dr. Hind. “With the right treatment, you can protect your vision and enjoy lasting comfort.”

Book your consultation today at Al-Ahli Hospital and experience expert dry eye care!