Dry Eye Syndrome Symptoms

Dry eye syndrome is an ocular surface disease caused by reduced tear secretion or excessive evaporation, commonly seen in people with prolonged eye use and the elderly. Globally, especially in countries with severe air pollution and widespread use of electronic devices, the incidence is increasing year by year. In Southeast Asia, where the climate is hot and humid and air conditioning is frequently used, the number of patients with dry eye syndrome is also gradually rising.

Detailed Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

1. Dryness
Dryness is the typical manifestation of dry eye syndrome. Patients often feel a lack of lubrication in the eyes, accompanied by burning and stinging sensations. The symptoms worsen after prolonged eye use or exposure to dusty environments, significantly affecting daily activities and work efficiency.

2. Foreign Body Sensation
Patients often feel as if there are sand particles or foreign objects in their eyes, especially worsening after blinking, leading to frequent eye rubbing and discomfort. This sensation originates from inflammation and damage of the cornea and conjunctiva.

3. Visual Fatigue
Patients with dry eye syndrome are prone to visual fatigue, manifesting as soreness, eye strain, and blurred vision after reading or using a computer. When visual fatigue worsens, headaches and decreased concentration may occur.

4. Redness and Burning Sensation
Due to ocular surface inflammation, patients’ eyes often appear red, with burning sensations and pain. Environmental irritants such as wind or smoke can significantly aggravate the symptoms.

5. Abnormal Tearing
Although patients with dry eye syndrome feel dryness, some experience reflex tearing. However, this tear fluid is often of poor quality and cannot effectively lubricate the ocular surface, which makes symptoms more complicated.

6. Sleep Quality Affected
Ocular discomfort worsens at night, leading to difficulty falling asleep or shallow sleep, resulting in daytime fatigue and poor concentration.

7. Corneal Damage
Untreated long-term dry eye syndrome may cause corneal epithelial damage, which in severe cases can lead to corneal ulcers and vision loss, threatening eye health.

8. Photosensitivity
Some patients are sensitive to light, feeling discomfort and pain when exposed to strong light, which affects outdoor activities.

Conclusion

The symptoms of dry eye syndrome are diverse and often overlooked. In severe cases, it can affect vision and quality of life. Experts from United Life International Medical Center remind us that early recognition and effective treatment of dry eye syndrome are crucial. Scientific treatment plans can effectively relieve symptoms, prevent disease progression, and safeguard patients’ eye health and quality of life.