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Eye syndrome dry
Burning, sandy feeling, tired eyes from the screen. Dry eye is common and bothersome, but with proper diagnosis, it can be kept under control.
What is dry eye?
A tear film that no longer protects
Normally, a thin film of tears covers and protects the surface of the eye with each blink. Dry eye syndrome occurs when there are too few or poor quality tears and they evaporate too quickly.
The surface of the eye remains insufficiently lubricated, which leads to discomfort, irritation and, over time, damage to the cornea.
Paradoxically, the eyes can also water. Irritation sometimes triggers reflex tearing, but those tears don't properly lubricate the surface of the eye.
Common causes
Why does dry eye occur?
Most of the time, it's a combination of factors. Identifying the cause helps us choose the right treatment.
Screen time
In front of screens we blink much less often, and the tear film evaporates.
Age and hormones
Tear production decreases with age, especially during menopause.
Environment
Air conditioning, wind, smoke, heating and dry air.
Contact lenses
Prolonged wear may worsen dry eyes.
Medications
Some treatments (antihistamines, antidepressants) reduce tears.
Eyelid disorders
Blepharitis and Meibomian gland dysfunction affect the tear film.
symptom
What does dry eye feel like?
Diagnostic
We assess the quantity and quality of tears
The diagnosis determines whether it is due to too few tears, too rapid evaporation, or a cause in the eyelids, so that we can treat the problem accurately.
Treatment at Oculens
Comfort and hydration, long term
Treatment combines symptom relief with resolving the cause. Individualized plan, depending on the type and severity of dry eye.
Artificial tears
Lubricating drops that restore the tear film and soothe irritation.
Eyelid hygiene
Warm compresses and eyelid cleansing, for the Meibomian glands.
Tear plugs
Small devices that keep tears on the eyes longer.
Treating the case
Controlling blepharitis, the environment, and adjusting the factors that maintain the problem.
Tips for home
What you can do daily for more comfortable eyes
A few simple habits can greatly reduce discomfort. They complement treatment, but do not replace it.
The 20-20-20 rule
Every 20 minutes at the screen, look at it for 20 seconds at about 6 meters.
Blink consciously
Blinking frequently and completely spreads the tear film over the eyes.
Humidifies the air
Use a humidifier and avoid direct air flow on your face.
Omega-3 and hydration
A diet rich in omega-3s and a good water intake support tears.
Don't ignore discomfort
Untreated dry eye can damage the cornea
Beyond daily discomfort, severe and long-lasting dry eye can lead to damage to the surface of the eye and decreased vision. A consultation will determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Schedule a consultationFrequently asked questions
What should I do? you know
Can dry eye be cured?
It is often a chronic condition, but it is very well controlled. With the right treatment and a few changes in habits, symptoms can be significantly reduced or eliminated.
Can I use any drops from the pharmacy?
Artificial tears help, but not all are the same. A consultation will determine the right type for you and check if there is a cause that needs to be treated separately.
Why do my eyes water if they are "dry"?
It's a reflex reaction. Surface irritation triggers a sudden tearing, but those tears don't have the right composition to properly lubricate the eye.
Do contact lenses make dry eye worse?
They can increase dryness, especially with prolonged wear. However, there are lenses and solutions suitable for sensitive eyes, which we can recommend after evaluation.
How quickly do I feel improvement?
Artificial tears quickly relieve discomfort. For long-term control, treating the cause and making daily habits make a difference within a few weeks.
Relieves the discomfort of dry eye
A consultation will determine the cause and the most appropriate treatment for you. We are waiting for you at Calea Turzii 134-136, Cluj-Napoca.