There are two primary reasons for dry eye syndrome. Either there is minimal tear production, or the tears are drying too quickly, failing to keep the eyes moist. Note that you could simultaneously have one type or both types of dry eyes. The condition hampers the eye’s ability to clean dust and any other foreign particle that may fall into it. It also aids the development of germs and infections in and around the eyes.

Types of dry eye syndrome

Type 1: When eyes do not produce enough tears
This condition is called aqueous tear-deficient dry eye. It is a situation where the gland responsible for tears, referred to as the lacrimal gland, does not produce enough tears. Age is one of the reasons why you might get it, along with other reasons, which include diabetes, arthritis, lupus, thyroid disorders, and vitamin A deficiency.

Type 2: When tears do not stick around long enough
This is also referred to as evaporative dry eye as the tears dry very quickly. It could be due to a change in environment or a natural occurrence.

Treatment Options for Dry Eyes
A successful treatment is only possible if you follow your doctor’s instructions and recommendations. The following is a list of treatment options available for reducing the signs and symptoms associated with dry eyes.

1. Artificial tears eye drops
This works if the person has a mild case of dry eyes that are largely caused due to long hours of computer use, reading, school/college work, and other such occupational/situational causes. These eye drops require the person to frequently use them to lubricate the eyes.

2. Restasis
In addition to the eye drops mentioned above, doctors could also recommend RETASIS® for treating dry eyes. In addition to lubricating the eye’s surface, it also reduces the inflammation associated with dry eyes and aids the body in producing natural tears to keep the eyes moist and healthy. RETASIS® is a prescription-only medication. Yet another eye drop that the doctors could prescribe is Xiidra®, which has also successfully passed its clinical trials by proving its effectiveness in the first two weeks instead of the promised four weeks.

3. Steroid eye drops
Inflammation is one of the major contributors to dry eyes, and it also causes redness and a burning sensation in the eyes. Steroid eye drops provide short-term, quick, and efficient management of such symptoms and are largely helpful for those who are always on the go. While this is always considered a quick fix, only artificial tear drops, RETASIS®, or Xiidrea®, are recommended for long-term use. If you use steroid eye drops for long-term use without consulting your doctor, it could lead to an increase in eye pressure or even cataracts.

4. Lacrisert

This is a lubricant that is placed on the lower eyelid and ensures to slowly release the liquid. Accordingly, it relieves dryness, watery eyes, foreign body sensation, and also itchiness.

In addition to the above, there is also punctual plugs treatment, which involves placing a sterile device that keeps the tears on the eye’s surface for longer.