Dry Eye Disease (DED) is a chronic condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears, or where the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inflammation and damage of the eye surface.
It is a common condition and can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and long-term changes to eye health if left untreated.
Dry Eye Disease is not simply “dry eyes”. It is a medical condition that often worsens over time and requires proper diagnosis and tailored treatment.
What causes Dry Eye Disease?
Dry Eye Disease usually develops due to a combination of factors, including:
- Poor quality or unstable tear film
- Dysfunction of the meibomian glands (oil glands in the eyelids)
- Inflammation of the eye surface
- Hormonal changes, particularly in peri- and post-menopausal patients
- Certain medications and systemic health conditions
- Prolonged screen use and reduced blinking
In many patients, Dry Eye Disease is present for years before symptoms become severe.
What are the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease?
Symptoms can vary significantly between patients and may include:
- Gritty or burning sensations
- Redness or irritation
- Watery eyes (a reflex response to dryness)
- Fluctuating or blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Discomfort that worsens throughout the day
Importantly, symptoms do not always match disease severity, which is why clinical assessment is essential..
How is Dry Eye Disease diagnosed?
Dry Eye Disease cannot be accurately diagnosed through symptoms alone.
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Detailed clinical history
- Assessment of tear film stability
- Examination of the eyelids and meibomian glands
- Imaging to assess gland structure and function
This allows treatment to be targeted to the underlying cause rather than trial-and-error management.
How is Dry Eye Disease treated?
There is no single treatment that works for every patient.
Management is tailored and may include:
- Lifestyle and environmental modifications
- Eyelid hygiene and heat therapy
- Prescription or non-prescription eye drops
- In-practice treatments designed to improve tear film quality
- Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of care
Early diagnosis and targeted treatment can significantly improve comfort and long-term eye health.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dry Eye Disease permanent?
Dry Eye Disease is usually a long-term condition, but symptoms can be well controlled with appropriate diagnosis and management.
Can Dry Eye Disease get worse over time?
Yes. Without proper treatment, Dry Eye Disease often progresses and may become more difficult to manage.
Do artificial tears cure Dry Eye Disease?
Artificial tears may relieve symptoms, but they do not treat the underlying causes of Dry Eye Disease.
Clinical review
This information has been reviewed by the clinical team at Earlam & Christopher, specialists in the diagnosis and management of Dry Eye Disease.