Causes of Dry Eye: Symptoms, Causes, and Modern Treatments

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye, medically known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a chronic condition that occurs when the eye surface cannot be sufficiently lubricated with an adequate amount or quality of tears. Tears are a complex structure that keeps the front surface of the eye moist, protects it from infections, and ensures clear vision. In our patients in Fethiye, we frequently encounter these complaints due to low humidity and high sun exposure brought by the Mediterranean climate.

As Op. Dr. Gönül Fariz, who has been serving in the field of eye health for over 15 years in Fethiye, we emphasize that dry eye is not just a comfort issue but a serious medical condition that can lead to corneal damage if left untreated. Approximately 30% of the adult population worldwide experiences dry eye problems at some point in their lives.

Main Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye is mainly caused by two primary mechanisms: inadequate tear production or rapid evaporation of tears. In our Fethiye eye examination processes, clarifying this distinction is critical for the success of the treatment.

1. The Aging Factor

Tear production shows a natural tendency to decrease with age. Especially in individuals over 50, the function of tear glands can decrease by 40%. This situation is more pronounced in postmenopausal women due to hormonal changes.

2. Environmental Factors and Fethiye Climate

The hot and windy weather of Fethiye increases the rate of tear evaporation. In addition, intensive air conditioning use in indoor spaces dries the humidity in the air, negatively affecting the eye surface. Environmental factors rank first in Muğla ophthalmology applications.

3. Digital Screen Usage

Today, the use of computers, tablets, and phones is one of the most common causes of dry eye. While normally blinking 15-20 times per minute, this number drops to 5-7 when looking at a screen. This causes the eye surface to remain parched for minutes.

4. Medical Conditions and Medications

Systemic diseases such as diabetes, thyroid diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome can cause dry eye. Additionally, some blood pressure medications, antihistamines, and antidepressants used can suppress tear secretion.

What are the Symptoms of Dry Eye?

Individuals experiencing dry eye often seek a Fethiye eye doctor with the following complaints:

• Burning, stinging, and itching sensations in the eyes.
• A sensation of a foreign body, like sand in the eye.
• Excessive watering (The body producing poor-quality tears in response to dryness).
• Blurred vision or decreased vision quality in the evenings.
• Difficulty and discomfort in wearing contact lenses.
• Sensitivity to light (Photophobia).

How is Dry Eye Treated in Fethiye?

In Op. Dr. Gönül Fariz's clinic, a personalized treatment protocol is applied for each patient. The steps followed within the scope of Fethiye dry eye treatment are as follows:

Diagnostic Methods

The Schirmer test is performed to measure the amount of tears, and biomicroscopic examinations are carried out to evaluate tear quality. The examination time is usually 15-20 minutes and is completely painless.

Treatment Protocols

While preservative-free artificial tear drops are sufficient for mild cases, cyclosporine-containing drops, punctal plugs (tear duct plugs), or special eyelid hygiene applications come into play for moderate and severe cases. Punctal plug application is an effective method performed in office conditions in just 5-10 minutes, allowing tears to stay on the eye surface longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does dry eye go away completely?

Chronic dry eye is usually not a condition that is completely eliminated but one that is perfectly controlled with correct treatment and lifestyle changes.

Does dry eye cause vision loss?

Untreated severe dry eye can cause ulcers on the corneal surface and consequent permanent vision blurring.

Are artificial tear drops addictive?

No, artificial tears are not medication, but moisture support that the eye needs. Long-term use does not stop the eye's natural production.

How long does an eye exam take in Fethiye?

A comprehensive eye examination and dry eye tests are completed in approximately 30-45 minutes.

What should I do at the computer?

Apply the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet (about 6 meters) away for 20 seconds and blink your eyes consciously.

Conclusion

Do not neglect your eye health. Op. Dr. Gönül Fariz, with 15 years of expertise in the Fethiye location, offers modern and definitive solutions for your dry eye complaints. Early diagnosis is the most effective way to protect your corneal health.