What is Dry Eye?

The tear film is an incredibly important multilayer of fluid overlying the surface of the cornea made up of oil, water and mucus.  An abnormality in quality or quantity of this tear film will lead to dry eyes and can have a devastating effect on ocular comfort and vision.

Chronic dry eyes can lead to ocular surface disease and increase the risk of conjunctival and corneal infections and the effect of environmental allergies on the eyes.

Dry eyes is simply what it says: dryness of the tear film often made worse with aging, especially in post-menopausal women and by systemic medications.

Symptoms include:

• Redness and irritation
• Foreign body sensation
• Light sensitivity and glare
• Excess tearing
• Mucous discharge
• Blurred vision