[39M] Experiencing persistent dry eyes

Patient Description

A 39-year-old male reports experiencing dry eyes throughout the day, with symptoms worsening after waking up. The condition has persisted for several months. No specific measures to relieve the dryness have been mentioned.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): This is a common condition that occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. It can be caused by a variety of factors including aging, certain medications, and environmental conditions.

    • Treatment: Over-the-counter artificial tears, prescription eye drops, and lifestyle changes such as using a humidifier or taking breaks from screen time.
  • Allergic Conjunctivitis: This occurs when your eyes react to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. It can cause redness, itching, and dryness.

    • Treatment: Avoiding allergens, using antihistamine eye drops, and applying cold compresses.
  • Blepharitis: This is an inflammation of the eyelids that can cause redness, itching, and a gritty feeling in the eyes.

    • Treatment: Good eyelid hygiene, warm compresses, and possibly antibiotic ointments or drops prescribed by a doctor.
  • Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): This condition occurs when the oil glands in your eyelids don't secrete enough oil into your tears, leading to faster evaporation of tears and dry eyes.

    • Treatment: Warm compresses, eyelid massages, and omega-3 supplements.

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take to help alleviate your symptoms:

  1. Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide temporary relief from dry eyes. Use them as needed throughout the day.
  2. Apply Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to your eyes for a few minutes can help to open up the oil glands in your eyelids.
  3. Maintain Good Eyelid Hygiene: Clean your eyelids gently with a warm, damp cloth or a commercial eyelid cleanser.
  4. Avoid Environmental Triggers: Try to avoid smoke, wind, and dry air. Using a humidifier in your home can help keep the air moist.
  5. Take Breaks from Screens: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.

What you should look out for

You should seek medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms worsen or do not improve with over-the-counter treatments.
  • You experience severe pain, sudden vision changes, or a significant increase in redness.
  • You notice any discharge from your eyes that is not related to tears.

Remember, while these tips can help manage your symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

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8 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Dry Eyes: American Academy of Ophthalmology Practice Guidelines

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of dry eyes?

Common causes of dry eyes include aging, certain medications, environmental factors like wind or dry air, and medical conditions such as Dry Eye Syndrome, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Blepharitis, and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction.


How can I relieve dry eyes at home?

To relieve dry eyes at home, you can use over-the-counter artificial tears, apply warm compresses to your eyes, maintain good eyelid hygiene, avoid environmental triggers like smoke and wind, and take regular breaks from screen time.


When should I see a doctor for dry eyes?

You should see a doctor if your dry eye symptoms worsen, do not improve with over-the-counter treatments, or if you experience severe pain, sudden vision changes, or significant redness or discharge from your eyes.


Can lifestyle changes help with dry eye symptoms?

Yes, lifestyle changes such as using a humidifier, taking breaks from screens, and maintaining good eyelid hygiene can help alleviate dry eye symptoms. Additionally, avoiding allergens and environmental triggers can also be beneficial.


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