Dry Eye Disease: A multifactorial disease of the tears and ocular surface that results in symptoms of discomfort, visual disturbance, and tear film instability with potential damage to the ocular surface. It is accompanied by increased osmolarity of the tear film and inflammation of the ocular surface. Also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, dry eye syndrome, tear film insufficiency. Translation: Dry eye is a complex, progressive disease that results from chronic damage to the parts of the eye that produce and support tears. The tears are responsible for providing protection, comfort, vision and maintenance for the eye surface. Typically, there is more than one initiating factor contributing to dryness of the eye. That is why a simple fix isn’t always available. What are the symptoms of dry eye disease?
- Scratchy or gritty sensation
- Itching and/or burning
- Foreign body sensation
- Watery eyes
- Increased irritation from wind and smoke
- Contact lens discomfort
- Fluctuating vision throughout the day