Tear Disorder

The tear film is a thin layer covering the surface of the eye and is important for eye health. The tear film keeps the eyes moist, prevents foreign substances and germs from entering the eye and protects the surface of the eye. The tear film consists of three layers:

• Lipid Layer: The outer layer, the lipid layer, prevents tears from evaporating. This layer consists of fatty substances secreted by the Meibomian Glands, the eyelid glands. The oils coat the surface of the tear and reduce evaporation, allowing the tear to stay on the surface of the eye for longer.
• Aqueous (Aqueous) Layer: The middle layer, the aqueous layer, makes up most of the tear. This layer is a watery liquid secreted by the lacrimal glands. The watery layer keeps the surface of the eye moist, nourishes and cleanses it.
• Mucus Layer: The mucus layer, the inner layer, allows tears to adhere to the surface of the eye. Mucus covers the surface of the eye, ensuring that tears are evenly distributed and adhere to the surface of the eye. This layer is produced by goblet cells, which are part of the lacrimal glands.

These three layers come together to form the tear film and contribute to the healthy functioning of the eye. The tear film helps prevent conditions such as dry eyes and keeps the eyes healthy.

• Burning and Stinging Sensation: A constant burning or stinging sensation in the eyes is one of the most common symptoms of dry eye. People with dry eye describe a feeling as if they have sand in their eyes.
• Itching: People with dry eyes often complain that their eyes itch.
• Redness: Redness of the eyes is another symptom of dry eyes. The lack of tears cannot protect the surface of the eye, which can lead to eye irritation.

• Blurred vision: The lack of a tear film can prevent proper vision on the surface of the eye. Therefore, blurred vision is common in people with dry eyes.
• Eye Fatigue: People with dry eyes often experience rapid eye fatigue and discomfort. Especially looking at the computer screen or other digital devices for a long time makes the eyes even more tired. People with dry eyes may have increased sensitivity to light or increased sensitivity to environmental factors such as wind.

These symptoms may indicate the presence of dry eye. However, symptoms can vary from person to person and can sometimes be confused with other eye conditions.

• Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as dry air, wind, cigarette smoke or air-conditioned environments can cause dry eyes.
• Eye Diseases: Eye diseases such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva) can cause dry eye.
• Age: Tear production may decrease with age, which may be more common in older people.
• Eye Surgery: Temporary dry eye may occur after eye surgery procedures such as LASIK.
• Medications: Some medications (antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants) can cause dry eyes.
• Rheumatic Diseases: Some diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome and SLE may cause dry eyes.

Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, blurred vision and discomfort in the eyes. Treatment for dry eye varies depending on the underlying cause.

TREATMENT OF DRY EYE:

Dry eye treatment aims to moisturize, soothe and protect the eyes. Treatment methods may vary depending on the severity of dry eye, the underlying causes and the intensity of symptoms. Here are the commonly used methods for treating dry eyes:

• Artificial Tear Drops and Gels: One of the most common treatment methods is artificial tear drops or gels. These products moisturize and soothe the surface of the eye. There are various types of artificial tear drops with different concentrations and ingredients.
• Eyelid Hygiene: Eyelid inflammation, such as blepharitis, can cause dry eyes. Eyelid cleansing helps to remove oily deposits from the eyelid margins. Special cleaning solutions or wipes can be used for eyelid cleaning.
• Ambient Humidifiers: Humidifiers used at home or at work can make the eyes feel more comfortable by increasing the humidity level of the indoor environment. It is especially useful for those who live in heated environments in winter.
• Eyelid Massage: Eyelid massage can increase tear flow and relieve dry eyes. Gently massaging the eyelid margins helps the eyelid glands work more effectively.
• Anti-inflammatory Treatments: In certain cases, anti-inflammatory medications are used to relieve dry eyes. These medications relieve dry eye symptoms by reducing eyelid inflammation.
• Warm Application to the Eyelids: Hot compresses or warm washcloths improve tear quality by thinning the secretions of the eyelid glands.
• Special Lenses for Dry Eye: For contact lens wearers, specially formulated lenses are available. These lenses help reduce dry eye and can provide a more comfortable lens experience.
• Punctum Plugs: Silicone plugs are placed in the tear duct entrances on the lower eyelid, allowing tears to stay in the eye longer and reducing complaints.