Dry Eye Syndrome

If you have a sensation of grit in your eyes--if you have reddened, burning eyes even early in the day, you may have the condition called "dry eye." (You also may have constantly watering eyes, which is the body's attempt to correct the condition.) Dry eye is very common: It's estimated that about 33 millions Americans suffer from varying degrees of the problem.

The most common cause of dry eye with normal tear secretion is blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelid. Blepharitis may be associated with skin diseases such as seborrhea or rosacea, or may occur by itself. Dry eye also may be inherited, or come from certain diseases such as Sjogren's syndrome, an immune system disorder that causes inflammation and dryness of the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. Thyroid disease or rheumatoid arthritis are also associated with dry eye.

When a disease isn't the cause, dry eye may result from overuse of decongestants, antihistamines, diuretics (to reduce water in your body), analgesics (pain relievers) and certain drugs such as beta-blockers or sleeping pills. And not surprisingly, computer users also may have the condition. Studies have shown that computer users only blink about four times a minutes, compared with the normal rate of about 22 times a minute--thus depriving the eye of needed moisture.

Aging of your tear ducts also can be a reason for the gritty feeling. For this reason, some people find they are less able to tolerate contact lenses as they age.

What can be done?
Check with an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) to help determine the most likely cause of your dry eye, and the most appropriate treatment. Dry eye can't be cured, but it can be helped. Artificial lubricants usually are useful for people with a milder version of the condition. They come in an eye drop or ointment form that normally can be used as much as necessary.

A surgical procedure called punctual occlusion may help if too much moisture is draining from the tear ducts. The surgery involves the temporary or permanent insertion of tiny plugs in the lacrimal (tear) ducts.

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