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Dry Eye Syndrome

Multifactorial Ocular Surface Disease

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Tear film instability from decreased production (aqueous-deficient) or increased evaporation (evaporative).

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is the leading cause of evaporative dry eye.

Hyperosmolarity and inflammation create a self-perpetuating cycle.

Associated with autoimmune (Sjögren syndrome), hormonal, and environmental factors.

Symptoms

Gritty, burning, or foreign-body sensation
Fluctuating blurred vision that improves with blinking
Reflex tearing (paradoxical)
Redness and eye fatigue at end of day
Contact lens intolerance
Photophobia and difficulty with prolonged screen use

Risk Factors

Age over 50 and female sex
Autoimmune disease (Sjögren, rheumatoid arthritis)
Meibomian gland dysfunction and rosacea
Prolonged screen time and low blink rate
Contact lens wear and refractive surgery
Systemic medications: antihistamines, antidepressants, isotretinoin, diuretics

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent irritation, redness, or fluctuating vision despite lubricants
  • Severe pain, sudden vision change, or corneal ulceration signs
  • Dryness with joint pain, dry mouth, or systemic symptoms (evaluate Sjögren)

Treatment Methods

01
Artificial tears (preservative-free for frequent use) and lubricating gels/ointments
02
Warm compresses, lid hygiene, and meibomian gland expression for MGD
03
Anti-inflammatory agents: topical cyclosporine, lifitegrast, short-course corticosteroids
04
Punctal plugs or cautery for aqueous-deficient dry eye
05
Autologous serum eye drops for severe disease
06
Omega-3 supplementation, humidifiers, screen-break strategies, and treating underlying disease

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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Dry eye syndrome is a multifactorial ocular surface disease with tear film instability, hyperosmolarity, ocular surface inflammation, and neurosensory abnormalities causing chronic burning, foreign-body sensation, and fluctuating vision; classified as aqueous-deficient (Sjögren and non-Sjögren) or evaporative (meibomian gland dysfunction); treatment includes artificial tears (preservative-free for severe), anti-inflammatory drops (cyclosporine, lifitegrast), punctal plugs/cautery, thermal pulsation (LipiFlow), IPL, autologous serum tears, and treatment of underlying conditions and contributing medications.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.