Tear labratory |
Dry Eye
Basics
The "dry eye" is a wetting disorder of the ocular surface caused by a reduction in the amount of tear or by an altered composition of the tear film. The result is that the eye is no longer ideally moistened.
The tear fluid has a complicated structure and is used for wetting the inside of the lid, the conjunctiva and the cornea. Contrary, a dry eye surface becomes rough, painful, causes visual disturbances and increases the risk of infection. A healthy tear fluid provides the supply and nutrition of the cornea with oxygen and nutrients and additionally protects against infections.
Common subjective symptoms of dry eyes
The following symptoms may indicate a disturbed tear film:
- Redness of the eyes
- Foreign body sensation
- Pain when exposed to drafts or smoky air
- Itching or burning
- Mucus secretion
- Tired eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Incompatibility with contact lenses
- Problems working at a computer screen
- Watery eyes
- and much more...
Do you suffer from symtoms of the "dry eye" (Sicca syndrome)?
There are many causes for the problem of the dry eye. This explains, why millions of people are affected:
- Age-related atrophy of the tear tissue
The tear fluid decreases with age. About 75% of the population over the age of 65 suffer from the so-called dry eye. - Wearing contact lenses
Wearing contact lenses binds tear fluid, which can cause discomfort, infection and / or increased deposit on the contact lens. Examination shows that the dry eye is the main cause of contact lens intolerance. - Hormonal changes (for women)
Various hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptives or menopause can be the cause of the dry eye problem. - Environment
VDU work, people who are exposed to smoke, air pollution, windy, cold or dry climate conditions as well as air-conditioned spaces belong to the risk group.