The feeling of sand in the eyes, burning, redness, or slightly blurred vision are signs that many people ignore, attributing them to fatigue. In reality, these can indicate dry eye syndrome, an increasingly common condition, especially with advancing age. Why do dry eyes occur, what role do tears play, and how does eye health change over time? Let's find out.
What does dry eye mean?
The healthy eye is constantly covered by a stable tear film that protects, moisturizes, and ensures clear vision. Dry eye syndrome occurs when:
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tears are not produced in sufficient quantity
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or the quality of the tears is poor, evaporating too quickly
The result is eye discomfort and constant eye irritation.
Common causes of dry eyes
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Advancing in age
As we age, the natural production of tears decreases. After the age of 40–45, the lacrimal glands become less active and the tear film thins. This is one of the main reasons why dry eyes are more common in adults and the elderly.
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Tear film imbalance
Tears are not just "water." They contain:
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a watery layer (hydration)
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a lipid layer (reduces evaporation)
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a mucous layer (adhesion to the surface of the eye)
When one of these layers is affected, symptoms of dry eye occur.
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Prolonged use of screens
We blink less frequently when using our phone, computer, or tablet. This promotes evaporation of tears and increases dryness in the eyes.
Environmental factors and lifestyle
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air conditioning or excessive heating
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smoke, dust, wind
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wearing contact lenses
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certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics)
The role of tears in eye health
Tears play an essential role in:
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protecting the eyes against infections
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maintaining clear vision
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lubrication and eye comfort
When tears are lacking or of poor quality, the eye becomes vulnerable, and discomfort can affect daily activities.
How can dry eyes be relieved?
To reduce symptoms, the following are recommended:
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artificial tears chosen correctly, without preservatives
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regular breaks from screens (the 20-20-20 rule)
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proper hydration
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adjustment of the working environment (humidifier)
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regular eye exams
At Optica Familiei, our specialists can help you choose the right solutions for your eyes, depending on your age and lifestyle. With the right care, you can restore the comfort and clarity your eyes need. Optica Familiei – care for your eyes, at any age.
We adapted the original article in English and Russian, maintaining its clear structure, accessible educational-medical tone, scientific accuracy, and SEO optimization. The content is translated faithfully, with minor adjustments for linguistic naturalness, and retains the reference to "Optica Familiei."
