Dry Eye (Dry Eye Syndrome)


Anatomy of the eye and vision

Anatomy of the eye and vision


The eye is the organ that allows us to see. The eyeball itself is a sphere spanning approximately 24 mm in diameter. It is suspended in the bony socket by muscles controlling its movements, and is partially cushioned by a thick layer of fatty tissue within the skull that protects it during movement.

For more information, see The Eye and Vision.


Dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)

Dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)


Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eye produces fewer or poorer quality tears and is unable to maintain normal eye lubrication. It can also occur when the lacrimal glands are damaged, or when tears evaporate more rapidly than normal.

For more information, see Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca).


    Tool: Evaluating dry eye syndrome

     
     YSN
    Do your eyes feel gritty or scratchy?
    Do your eyes feel like they're stinging or burning?
    Are your eyes watery or red?
    Do you take hormone replacement therapy or are post-menopausal?
    Do you wear contact lenses?
    Do you work at a computer or watch television for long periods?
    Are your eyes sensitive to light or dust?
    Do you wake up with mucus around your eyelids?
    Are your eyes itchy, especially around the corners?
    Do you suffer from blurry vision that changes when you blink?
    Do you suffer from athritis, asthma or gout?
    Do you take antihistamines, antidepressants or corticosteroids?
    Do you take diuretics or antihistamines?
    Are you over 40 years of age?  
     

    You are unlikely to be suffering from dry eye syndrome.

    You are experiencing a number of symptoms of dry eye syndrome. To improve symptoms, blinking frequently may help, drink plenty of water and avoid rubbing your eyes.

    Over the counter treatments are available from your pharmacy or optometry outlet. If symptoms persist speak to your health care professional.

    You are very likely to be suffering from dry eye syndrome. Consult your eye practitioner or health care professional to determine what treatments are best to alleviate your symptoms.

    This information will be collected for educational purposes, however it will remain anonymous.


    Office ergonomics: Preventing eye strain

    Office ergonomics: Preventing eye strain


    The use of computers amongst office workers has resulted in an increase in health disorders associated with computer use, the most common of which are eye and vision problems. While eye health problems related to computer use are usually temporary, they cause significant discomfort to computer users and are largely preventable.

    For more information, see Office Ergonomics: Preventing Eye Strain.


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