There are 3 types of dry eyes:
Evaporative Dry eye or MGD Dry eye:
86% of dry eyes are related to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). MGD occurs when the meibomian glands which are located within the eyelids do not produce enough oil to prevent the tear film from evaporating. Over time the oil in these glands can thicken and causes blockages of the glands. This results in poor quality oils and a reduction in the oil production. MGD can also cause eyelid inflammation and irritation. MGD is linked to age, blepharitis, medications, hormones, screen time and climate.
Aqueous Deficient Dry eye
Aqueous deficient dry eyes occurs when the lacrimal gland does not produce enough tears. You can find this type of dry eyes in 1/3 of patients with dry eye disease.
Mixed Dry eye
Mixed dry eye combines both evaporative and Mixed dry eye disease.
Symptoms of dry eyes include the following:
- Dry, gritty, or scratchy feeling in your eyes
- Sore or irritated feeling in your eyes
- Stinging/burning feeling in your eyes
- Redness in your eyes
- Itchy/swollen eyes
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Sensitivity to light
- Foreign body sensation in your eyes
https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/dry-eye
Am I at risk for dry eyes?
Although anyone can get dry eyes, certain things put you at greater risk. These include:
- Age
- Hormonal changes
- Females
- Contact lens wear
- Certain autoimmune conditions such as Lupus or Sjogren Syndrome
- Excessive use of digital displays
- Certain medications
- Environmental factors
Common treatments for dry eyes
The treatment your Eye Care Doctor chooses for your dry eye will depend on the underlying cause or type of dry eye you have. Some treatments manage the symptoms well; others help treat the underlying cause. Some of the common treatments include:
- Medication
- Eyedrops
- Warm compresses
- Light therapy
- Surgery