Dry Eye: Causes and Effective Treatment Options

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye disease (xerophthalmia) is a common condition in which the tears cannot provide enough lubrication for the eye.

Dry eye has several causes — not only reduced tear production, but also poor tear quality.

Patients often describe stinging, burning, or general discomfort. Dry eye can flare in specific settings — on a flight, in an air-conditioned room, or after long screen time on a computer or phone.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Tears are made up of water, lipids, and mucin. This combination lubricates and cleanses the surface of the eye and helps protect it from infection.

The most common cause of dry eye is reduced tear production. In other cases the tear film composition is abnormal, so tears evaporate too quickly and fail to keep the surface lubricated.

Reduced tear production is sometimes called keratitis sicca. It has several drivers, including ageing, diabetes, vitamin A deficiency, and scleroderma — among other conditions that can lead to chronic dry eye.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Burning sensation
• Discharge around the eye
• Light sensitivity
• Eye redness

Complications of Dry Eye

If left untreated, dry eye can lead to:

• Increased risk of eye infection
• Damage to the ocular surface
• Severe ocular inflammation
• Corneal ulcers

Does Dry Eye Affect Vision?

Yes — dry eye affects daily life and visual quality. Tasks such as reading for a long time or using a computer or phone can become considerably harder when the eye is dry.

Dry Eye and LASIK

Dry eye is common after LASIK, but it is usually temporary — a few days at most — rather than a chronic condition.

How Is Dry Eye Treated?

Most patients begin with lubricating eye drops, but more complex cases may need additional therapies.

Dry eye treatment focuses on comfort and surface protection. Options often include lifestyle changes and ongoing use of eye drops. For many patients, treatment is long-term to keep symptoms under control.

If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, don't hesitate to book an appointment with Dr. Shaarawy by clicking the "Book a Visit" button.