DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Ophthalmologic Disease

Dry Eye Syndrome

LOW SEVERITY

A multifactorial disease of the tears and ocular surface resulting in discomfort, visual disturbance, and tear film instability. Can be due to decreased tear production or increased evaporation.

Global Affected

350.0M

Countries

19

Symptoms

Burning sensation
Itchy eyes
Aching sensations
Heavy eyes
Fatigued eyes
Sore eyes
Dryness
Red eyes
Photophobia
Blurred vision

Treatment Options

Artificial tears
Prescription eye drops (cyclosporine, lifitegrast)
Punctal plugs
Warm compresses
Meibomian gland expression
Omega-3 supplements
Autologous serum tears
Scleral lenses
Intense pulsed light therapy
LipiFlow thermal pulsation

Risk Factors

1Age (over 50)
2Female gender
3Contact lens wear
4Computer/screen use
5Certain medications
6Autoimmune diseases
7Eyelid problems
8Vitamin A deficiency

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Comprehensive eye exam
  • 2Schirmer's test
  • 3Tear breakup time
  • 4Staining with fluorescein/lissamine green
  • 5Meibomian gland evaluation
  • 6Osmolarity testing

Prognosis

Chronic but manageable. Treatments improve comfort significantly. Rarely causes vision loss. May require lifelong management. Quality of life improved with proper treatment.

Prevention

  • Take screen breaks (20-20-20 rule)
  • Use humidifier
  • Avoid air blowing in eyes
  • Wear wraparound sunglasses
  • Stay hydrated
  • Blink regularly
  • Omega-3 fatty acids

Research Status

Artificial tears first-line. Prescription drops (cyclosporine, lifitegrast, varenicline). Punctal plugs for retention. Intense pulsed light for MGD. Autologous serum drops for severe. Meibomian gland expression. Xiidra and Restasis main prescriptions.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoIndiaChinaRussiaSwedenNetherlandsNorwayFinlandDenmark

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.