Dry Eye Disease (DED)

Dry eye disease (DED) and Digital Eye Strain (DES)

Dry Eye Disease (DED)

What is it:

Dry eye disease occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This causes discomfort, a burning or gritty sensation, redness, and blurred vision. Without treatment, vision quality and eye health can be compromised.

Main Reasons:

  • Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
  • Hormonal changes and age
  • Long hours of screen time, air conditioning, dry air
  • Certain medications (antihistamines, beta-blockers, etc.)

Possible Complications:

  • Inflammation of the cornea (keratitis)
  • Chronic red eyes
  • Significant vision loss

Treatment Strategy:

  • Use of moisturizing drops
  • Local anti-inflammatory treatment
  • Sebaceous gland stimulation and hygiene
  • If necessary — additional examinations and a systemic approach

Digital Eye Strain (DES)

What Is It:

Digital eye strain syndrome is a set of eye and vision problems that occur as a result of prolonged use of a computer, smartphone, tablet, or other digital screen.

Symptoms:

  • Eye strain and dryness
  • Headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Neck or shoulder pain

Main Reasons:

Rare blinking and long focusing at close range.

Prevention:

20-20-20 rule — Every 20 minutes, focus on an object 20 feet (about 6 meters) away for 20 seconds.

Dry Eye Self-Test

(Screening tool – not a substitute for professional consultation)

Over the past week, how often have you experienced each symptom?

(0 = Never, 1 = Rarely, 2 = Sometimes, 3 = Often, 4 = Always)

  1. Do your eyes feel dry or gritty?
  2. Do you experience a burning sensation in your eyes?
  3. Do your eyes water excessively?
  4. Do you have sensitivity to light?
  5. Do you experience blurred vision that improves with blinking?
  6. Do your eyes feel tired after reading or screen work?
  7. Do you experience redness in your eyes?

Are You Ready To Start Treatment?