Dry Eye: causes, symptoms, and solutions

Dry eye disease is a very common condition that can affect up to one in two people, representing one of the main vision disorders in the population. This syndrome is due to an alteration of the protective tear film on the surface of the eye, with consequent vision problems.

How do I recognize dry eye syndrome?

Signs of dry eye include poor tear production and/or rapid evaporation, and inflammation of the eye's surface. Ocular symptoms are dryness, the sensation of sand or a foreign body in the eye, redness and burning, pain, and blurred vision.

What causes dry eyes?

Key risk factors include advanced age, female gender, eye surgery (e.g., cataracts, glaucoma), and the use of antihistamine medications. Environmental factors such as sun exposure, air pollution, contact lens use, and prolonged use of electronic devices can also contribute to the onset of dry eye.

Why do dry eyes occur?

Tears are essential for eye health: they provide nutrients and oxygen, lubricate the surface, and remove dust and foreign agents. The tear film also consists of a lipid layer that acts as a barrier against evaporation. When this layer is disrupted, the eye's surface is directly exposed to air, causing loss of hydration and a sensation of dryness.

How can symptoms be alleviated?

The best approach is to restore the natural lipids of the tear film and ensure proper hydration through artificial tears. Among the most used and clinically tested active ingredients is hyaluronic acid, naturally present in the tear film, cornea, and vitreous humor. Artificial tears with 0.1–0.4% hyaluronic acid offer a lubricating, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitoxic effect on the ocular surface.