Dry Eye Syndrome

What is dry eye syndrome?

Tears are not simply water — they are a complex mixture of water, oils, mucus, and antibodies that lubricate, nourish, and protect the eye surface. Dry eye syndrome occurs when this tear film is insufficient or unstable, leading to inflammation and damage of the ocular surface.

There are two main types: aqueous-deficient dry eye (insufficient tear production) and evaporative dry eye (tears evaporate too quickly, most often due to meibomian gland dysfunction). Most people have a combination of both.

Symptoms

• Persistent dryness, burning, or stinging in the eyes
• Redness and irritation, especially in windy or air-conditioned environments
• Blurred vision that improves briefly with blinking
• A gritty or foreign body sensation
• Excessive tearing — paradoxically, dry eyes can trigger reflex tearing
• Difficulty with prolonged screen use, reading, or driving
• Discomfort or intolerance of contact lenses

Causes & risk factors

• Ageing — tear production naturally decreases with age
• Hot, dry, or windy climates — particularly relevant in Portugal and Spain
• Prolonged screen use — reduces blink rate, increasing tear evaporation
• Hormonal changes — menopause significantly increases dry eye risk
• Medications including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure tablets
• Autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus
• Contact lens wear and previous refractive surgery

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if symptoms are persistent, affecting your quality of life, or not improving with over-the-counter artificial tears. Untreated dry eye can cause corneal damage over time — early treatment protects your vision.

Treatment options

• Artificial tears — lubricating eye drops used regularly throughout the day; preservative-free formulations are best for frequent use
• Warm compresses and lid massage — for evaporative dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction
• Prescription anti-inflammatory drops (ciclosporin) — for moderate to severe cases
• Punctal plugs — small devices inserted into the tear ducts to slow drainage and keep eyes moist longer
• Omega-3 supplements — evidence supports their benefit in evaporative dry eye
• Environmental modifications — humidifiers, screen breaks, and protective eyewear

How eMedClinic can help

Our ophthalmologists provide online consultations for dry eye syndrome, identify the underlying type and cause, and recommend a personalised treatment plan including prescription drops where appropriate. Living in southern Europe does not mean suffering with dry eyes.