Dry eye syndrome

Extract

• Dry eye syndrome is a disease of the eye surface with several possible underlying factors.
• The causes are divided into two main types: excessive evaporation of tear fluid (90%) and decreased tear production (10%). In many cases, there are features of both types involved.
• Dry eyes are often associated with allergy symptoms and vice versa.
• In most cases, dryness of the eyes is mild. A GP should recognize severe disease that could cause permanent damage to the surface of the eye, and refer the patients to an ophthalmologist for further examination and treatment.
• Essential diagnostic measures include fluorescein staining of the eye surface and ophthalmoscopy.
• The Schirmer test and examining the persistence of the tear film (break-up time) will help to define the severity of dryness.
• Treatment is based on regular and sufficient long-term use of moisturizing drops and protection from factors further drying the eyes.

Read full article of Dry eye syndrome

Search terms

Atopy, Basedow disease, Beta blockers, Beta-blocking agents, Erythema multiforme, Eye, Eye drops, H04.10, Lyell syndrome, M35.0, Meretoja disease, Ophthalmic Solutions, Ophthalmology, Pemphigoid, Psoriasis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Rheumatology, Rosacea, Schirmer test, Schirmer's test, Seborrhoeic dermatitis, Seborrhoeic eczema, TEN, Toxic epidermal necrolysis, Xerophthalmia, dry eyes, keratoconjunctivis sicca, tear secretion