SYMPTOMS

Dry eye signs and symptoms usually affect both eyes and include a combination of symptoms like stinging or burning sensation, redness, swelling, stringy mucous in or around the eye, blurred vision or eye fatigue, sensitivity to light, the sensation of having something in the eye, difficulty wearing contact lenses, difficulty driving at night, and water eyes, a response from the eyes to the irritation of dry eyes (REVERSE TEARING EFFECT).

Dry eyes can make it more difficult to perform some activities, such as using a computer or reading for an extended period, and it can decrease your tolerance for dry environments.

Eyes require lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eyes for protection and nutrition. When dry eye occurs, the eyes are left vulnerable to bacterial infection, and in severe cases, scarring of the cornea.

DIAGNOSIS

To diagnose dry eye aside from detailing your dry eye symptoms some tests are performed. Your eye specialist will evaluate your overall eye health including tear film break up time (TBUT). The Schirmer test can measure your tear production that involves placing blotting strips of paper under your lower eyelids. After five minutes your doctor measures the amount of strip soaked by your tears. A tear osmolarity test measures the composition of particles and water in your tears.