Ways to Protect Your Eye Health Against Modern Living

In recent years, especially with the rise of office work models and the use of smart devices, the frequency of dry eye has increased significantly. This condition manifests with complaints such as itching, burning, and redness. However, with a consistent and patient management approach, it is possible to control this issue throughout one’s life.

Dry eye occurs when the surface of the eye is not sufficiently moistened, sometimes related to insufficient production of tears or loss of tears, as well as secondary factors that can cause dryness. Dr. Burcu Usta Uslu, a specialist in eye diseases at Anadolu Health Center, emphasizes that when managed effectively, the complaints associated with dry eye can be significantly reduced. In this article, prepared with insights from our expert, it will only take 1-2 minutes to gain important information about the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of this problem.

What Causes Dry Eye?

There are many factors that contribute to dry eye, but some prominent causes include:

Intensive use of smart devices (such as phones, tablets, and laptops)
Working in air-conditioned environments
Insufficient fluid intake
A diet poor in essential oils (fragrant herbal oils)
Various systemic diseases (such as rheumatological diseases)
Certain medications used for systemic diseases

How is it Recognized?

Symptoms of dry eye can vary depending on the underlying causes and accompanying diseases. Patients generally report complaints of itching, burning, redness, irritation (feeling as if a foreign body is present), blurred vision, or poor vision towards the end of the day.

The First Step in the Diagnosis Process: Patient History

For patients presenting with symptoms of dry eye, the first step in making an accurate diagnosis is taking a thorough medical history. The next step involves examining the patient’s eye surface and some findings on the eyelid using a device called a biomicroscope. Following this, a fluorescein dye test is performed, which allows for an assessment of the tear film stability by staining the tear film. Additionally, measurements of the meibomian glands and tear quality are obtained using a meibography device, which is available at Anadolu Health Center but not in every clinic.

How Are Artificial Tears Used in the Treatment of Dry Eye?

Artificial (synthetic) tears are actually products that should be used entirely under medical supervision. They mostly come in drop and gel form, each with different ingredients and compositions. There is no standard usage; they can be used under a doctor’s supervision from 2 to 5 times daily.

Dry Eye is a "Manageable" Issue

It is not entirely accurate to say that dry eye can be cured, as the underlying causes of dry eye will persist as long as they exist in the patient's life. Therefore, it is more accurate to refer to it as a “manageable” issue. By controlling underlying factors or environmental conditions and maintaining supportive tear treatments, it is possible to reduce complaints and manage dry eye effectively, including utilizing laser treatments.

The incidence of dry eye has seen a significant increase, particularly with the widespread adoption of office-type work models in recent years. Currently, the prevalence of dry eye in the general population has risen to about 70%.

Last Updated Date: 12 February 2024

Publication Date: 12 February 2024