Dry eye is a common condition characterized by insufficient lubrication of the ocular surface. Understanding the complexities of the tear film is crucial for maintaining eye health.
Dry eye is a condition where your eyes do not receive sufficient lubrication and moisture because the natural tear film fails to function properly. It is a multifactorial disease that affects the ocular surface and is accompanied by a range of symptoms like discomfort and visual disturbances. Understanding what dry eye is helps us appreciate the complexity of our eyes’ protective system and why keeping it balanced is essential for eye health.
Dry eye is defined as a multifactorial disease of the ocular surface characterized by a loss of homeostasis of the tear film. Experts, including those behind the TFOS DEWS II report, describe it as a complex condition in which tear film instability, increased tear osmolarity, inflammation, damage to the ocular surface, and even neurosensory abnormalities all play a role. Simply put, dry eye occurs when your eyes are not properly lubricated because either not enough tears are produced or they evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort and sometimes blurry vision.
Your tear film is essential to maintaining a healthy ocular surface. It is not just a layer of fluid – it is a dynamic, structured system that protects and nourishes your eyes. The tear film is composed of three primary layers:
When any of these layers is compromised, the tear film cannot maintain the stability the eyes need, which can lead to the symptoms of dry eye.
If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eye, find a top optometrist near you to get the care you need.
The hallmark of dry eye is a disruption in the normal balance of the tear film. Key characteristics include:
Together, these factors contribute to a cycle where poor tear film quality leads to symptoms like burning, irritation, and sometimes fluctuations in vision.
Dry eye is not caused by a single factor. Instead, multiple elements can combine in different ways to upset the delicate balance of the tear film. Here are some of the underlying causes that contribute to the definition of dry eye:
These factors not only contribute to the onset of dry eye but also illustrate why its definition must encompass a range of physiological disruptions. The multifactorial nature of dry eye is why its definition is more complex than simply “not having enough tears.”
If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eye, find a top optometrist near you to get the care you need.
Dry eye affects millions, resulting in discomfort and visual disturbances. Learn how the tear film impacts your eye health.
