WHAT DOCTORS MUST TELL PATIENTS ABOUT DRY EYE SYNDROME

Dry eye syndrome affects lakhs of people globally, causing discomfort and vision issues. Learn how doctors must guide patients about managing it.

- Dr Pravin Patil

Dry eye syndrome is a prevalent condition that affects millions of individuals globally, leading to discomfort and potential vision issues. This condition arises when the eyes either fail to produce sufficient tears or when tears evaporate too rapidly. The symptoms can vary from occasional irritation to chronic discomfort, significantly impacting daily activities such as reading, driving, and using digital devices.

Doctors should inform patients about the importance of recognizing the signs of dry eye syndrome for early intervention. Common physical symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Patients may also experience functional impairments such as difficulty wearing contact lenses, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.

To accurately diagnose dry eye syndrome, several diagnostic tests are essential. Tear production tests, such as the Schirmer’s test, measure tear volume, while the Tear Breakup Time (TBUT) test assesses tear film stability. A comprehensive eye examination is crucial to identify contributing factors like meibomian gland dysfunction or environmental influences.