Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome: Key Information on Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options.

Are you tired of dealing with dry, uncomfortable eyes? You’re not alone! Dry Eye Syndrome is a common condition that can impact your daily life. Let’s dive into what causes this issue, how to recognise its symptoms, and discover various treatment options available at iSurgeon to help you find relief. Say goodbye to irritation and hello to comfort, your eyes deserve it!

More Than Just an Irritation

Dry, scratchy eyes might seem like a minor annoyance. Still, for many people, Dry Eye Syndrome is a chronic condition that affects quality of life, work productivity, and emotional well-being. At iSurgeon, we understand the complexity of this condition and offer evidence-based solutions tailored to your unique eye health.

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome, also called Ocular Surface Disease, occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. A healthy tear film is essential to protect the eye’s surface, keep it moist, and provide clear vision. When this system fails, it can lead to inflammation, blurred vision, discomfort, and even damage to the cornea.

Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry Eye Syndrome can stem from a wide variety of causes. Understanding the root cause is key to effective treatment.

1. Ageing: Tear production decreases with age, especially after 50.
2. Hormonal Changes: Common in postmenopausal women due to reduced estrogen.
3. Medical Conditions: Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, and lupus can contribute.
4. Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications may reduce tear production.
5. Environmental Factors: Wind, dry climates, smoke, and screen use can accelerate tear evaporation.
6. LASIK Surgery: Temporary dry eye symptoms may follow refractive surgery.
7. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): A blockage in these oil-producing glands can destabilise the tear film.

Common Symptoms

Dry Eye Syndrome manifests differently from patient to patient, but the following symptoms are typical:

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation
• A feeling of something “gritty” in the eyes
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Redness or irritation, especially in dry environments
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Watery eyes (a reflex response to dryness)

If you are experiencing any of these, a comprehensive eye examination at iSurgeon can help determine if Dry Eye is the cause.

The Science Behind Tears

Tears are made up of three layers:

1. Lipid Layer: Produced by the meibomian glands to prevent evaporation
2. Aqueous Layer: Made by the lacrimal glands to hydrate the eye
3. Mucin Layer: Helps tears stick to the eye’s surface

An imbalance or deficiency in any of these layers can lead to Dry Eye Syndrome. That’s why treatment must be customised to target the malfunctioning layer.

Diagnosis at iSurgeon

At iSurgeon, we use advanced diagnostic tools to measure tear production, quality, and stability. These may include:

• Tear Breakup Time (TBUT): Measures how quickly tears evaporate.
• Schirmer’s Test: Assesses tear production with small strips of paper.
• Meibography: Imaging of the meibomian glands.
• Ocular Surface Staining: Identifies areas of damage on the cornea and conjunctiva.
• InflammaDry Test: Detects elevated inflammatory markers in the tear film.

Accurate diagnosis leads to more effective, personalised treatment plans.

Treatment Options

Dry Eye Syndrome is chronic but manageable. At iSurgeon, we develop an integrated care plan that addresses both symptoms and underlying causes.

1. Artificial Tears and Eye Drops

Over-the-counter lubricating drops are often the first line of defence. Preservative-free formulations are preferred for long-term use.

2. Prescription Medications

For more severe cases, we may prescribe:

• Cyclosporine (Restasis®) or Lifitegrast (Xiidra®): Reduce inflammation and increase tear production.
• Corticosteroid drops: Short-term use to control inflammation.

3. Meibomian Gland Treatment

For patients with MGD, we offer:

• Warm compress therapy
• Lid hygiene routines
• In-office procedures such as LipiFlow®, which unblocks oil glands with thermal pulsation

4. Punctal Plugs

Tiny silicone or collagen plugs can be inserted into the tear ducts to reduce drainage and keep tears on the eye surface longer.

5. Nutritional Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, have improved tear quality and reduced inflammation.

6. Environmental and Lifestyle Changes

• Take regular screen breaks
• Use a humidifier
• Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid smoke and direct air-conditioning

Advanced Therapies

At iSurgeon, we also offer newer solutions such as:

• Amniotic membrane therapy for healing the ocular surface
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy for MGD-related inflammation
• Autologous serum eye drops (made from your own blood serum) in advanced or refractory cases

Is Dry Eye Permanent?

While Dry Eye Syndrome is often chronic, many patients experience significant relief and improved vision with proper diagnosis, consistent treatment, and follow-up care. The goal is not just symptom relief, but restoring the health of the ocular surface and improving your quality of life.

When to See an Eye Specialist

Don’t ignore the symptoms if you experience persistent dry, itchy, or gritty eyes. Left untreated, Dry Eye can lead to corneal ulcers, infections, and even vision loss.

At iSurgeon, we take a comprehensive, patient-centred approach to eye care. Our team of specialists will work with you to identify the cause, provide education, and deliver tailored treatment solutions backed by the latest research and technology.

iSurgeon: Your Partner in Eye Health

Located in state-of-the-art clinics, including Southgate Mall and Edenvale, iSurgeon offers professional and compassionate care for all eye conditions. Our team is committed to helping you see clearly, comfortably, and confidently—no matter your age or symptoms.

Dry Eye Syndrome may be common, but it should never be dismissed. With professional evaluation and evidence-based treatments from the experts at iSurgeon, you can regain comfort, prevent further complications, and improve your quality of life.

Ready for Relief?
Book your dry eye consultation at iSurgeon today and start seeing and feeling better.