Doctor explains DRY EYE | Causes, treatment and a demonstration of how to correctly apply eye drops

In this video, I delve into a topic that affects millions of people worldwide: dry eye. If you've ever experienced that gritty, irritated feeling in your eyes, you're not alone. Dry eye is one of the most common reasons people visit their eye doctor, and understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatments can significantly improve your quality of life.

So, what exactly is dry eye? Simply put, dry eye occurs when your eyes either don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including a gritty or sandy sensation, redness, burning, blurred vision, and, surprisingly, excessive tearing. Yes, watery eyes can actually be a sign of dry eye, which may seem counterintuitive but is quite common.

There are two primary types of dry eye that many people experience, often in combination. The first is aqueous deficient dry eye, where the tear glands fail to produce enough of the watery component of tears. This can leave your eyes feeling dry and irritated. The second type is evaporative dry eye, which is the most prevalent form. In this case, your eyes produce tears, but they evaporate too quickly due to a weak or missing oily layer that normally helps retain moisture. This oily layer is produced by tiny oil glands in your eyelids, and when these glands become clogged or dysfunctional—a condition known as meibomian gland dysfunction—your tears don't stay on your eyes long enough, leading to discomfort.

Now, you might be wondering what causes dry eye. There are several common triggers. Prolonged screen time is a significant factor, as it often leads to reduced blinking. If you spend hours on your computer or scrolling through your phone, you may not be blinking as often as you should, which can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Other contributors include wearing contact lenses, certain medications like antihistamines and antidepressants, and autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome. Additionally, as we age, our susceptibility to dry eye increases.

So, how do we treat dry eye? The first line of defense is often artificial tears. In my video, I provide a practical demonstration on how to apply these drops correctly, which is crucial for maximizing their effectiveness. But beyond artificial tears, there are several lifestyle changes you can implement. For instance, taking regular breaks from screens can help refresh your tear film. I recommend stepping away from your computer or phone every so often and looking out a window to give your eyes a break.

Another simple yet effective remedy is using a warm compress. Just take a clean towel, run it under warm water, and place it gently over your closed eyes for a few minutes. This can help keep your oil glands open and functioning properly. Additionally, consider using a humidifier at home to combat dry air, which can further irritate your eyes.

For those with more severe dry eye, your eye doctor may recommend prescription drops, punctal plugs (tiny inserts that block tear drainage), or even anti-inflammatory treatments to reduce irritation. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist despite using artificial tears multiple times a day.

In my video, I also walk you through the proper technique for applying artificial tears. Start by washing your hands thoroughly and checking the expiration date on the bottle. Tilt your head back or lie down comfortably, then gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above your eye, about an inch away, and squeeze one drop into the pocket. After applying the drop, close your eye gently and keep it closed for a few seconds. This technique, known as punctual occlusion, helps the drop stay on the eye surface longer.

If you're using more than one type of eye drop, remember to wait five to ten minutes between applications to avoid washing out the first drop. Most people start with one to two drops a day, but it's perfectly fine to increase to three or four times daily if needed. If you find yourself using drops more than four times a day, consider switching to a preservative-free option to minimize irritation.

For those in the US, I recommend brands like Refresh or Systane, while in the UK, Hylo Forte is a great choice, especially the preservative-free versions. These recommendations come from trusted eye care professionals and my personal experience.

Finally, it's crucial to know when to seek professional help. If you're using artificial tears several times a day and still experiencing symptoms, it may be time to consult an eye care provider. There could be underlying issues, such as inflammation or eyelid problems, that require more targeted treatment.

For more information and trusted resources on dry eye, please check out the description box of this video. Remember, taking care of your eyes is essential for your overall well-being, and I hope this video helps you or someone you care about find relief from dry eye symptoms. Thank you for watching, and take care of your eyes!