Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca) – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Persistent dryness of the eye due to insufficient production of tears Is known medically as keratoconjunctivitis sicca; the condition becomes Increasingly common in women overage 35.

Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can be a feature of certain autoimmune disorders in which the tear glands can be damaged, such as:

• rheumatoid arthritis
• Sjogren’s syndrome
• lupus.

If you notice that your eyes are becoming dry frequendy, you should consult your
doctor so dial lie can exclude any possible related condition.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Symptoms of dry eye include:

• blurred vision
• burning and itching
• grittiness.

If left untreated, corneal ulcers and eventually scarring of the cornea may occur.

Treatment of Dry Eye

• Your doctor will prescribe artificial tears to restore moisture to the eye.
• Investigations should be done to find any underlying cause of the dry eyes and appropriate treatment given.
• In some cases, surgery may be performed to plug the channel through which the tears normally drain away from the eyes.