La ocular dryness, Also known as Dry eye syndromeIt is an increasingly common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Although in its early stages it may seem like a simple annoyance, if left untreated it can seriously affect quality of life and visual health.
En Nivaria ClinicWe address dry eye from a comprehensive perspective, with precise diagnosis and personalized treatments that improve the quality of life of our patients.
What is dry eye?
Dry eye occurs when the eye does not produce enough tears or when these are from Poor quality and they evaporate too quickly, which generates a inadequate lubrication of the ocular surface.
Tears play a vital role: they keep the eye hydrated, protect against infections, promote healing, and ensure clear vision. When this system fails, bothersome symptoms appear that can become chronic.
Who can suffer from dry eye?
Although it can affect people of any age, it is more common in:
- Women over 45 years of age (especially after menopause)
- Contact lens wearers
- People who work long hours in front of screens
- Patients with autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- People who have been subjected to eye surgery, such as refractive or cataract surgery
In addition, frequent use of face masks, exposure to dry environments (air conditioning, heating) and certain medications can promote its appearance.
Dry eye symptoms
Symptoms vary in intensity and are not always related to the clinical severity of the condition. Among the most common are:
- Sensation of a foreign body or grit
- Itching or burning
- Eye redness
- Excessive tearing (paradoxical response to irritation)
- Intermittent blurred vision
- Photophobia (discomfort in light)
- Eye strain at the end of the day
- Mild pain or burning sensation
Dry eyes often worsen throughout the day, especially in air-conditioned or heated environments, or after many hours in front of a screen.
Causes of dry eyes
The causes of dry eye syndrome are classified into two main groups:
1. Deficiency in tear production
An insufficient amount of tears is produced. The most frequent causes are:
- Advanced age
- Autoimmune disorders (Sjögren's syndrome, lupus)
- Pharmaceutical products such as antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics
- Previous eye surgeries
2. Excessive tear evaporation
In this case, tears are produced in normal quantities, but they evaporate quickly due to:
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (located on the eyelids)
- Chronic blepharitis
- Incomplete or infrequent blinking
- Dry or contaminated environments
- prolonged use of screens (flickering is reduced)
- Improper use of contact lenses
In many cases, both causes are combined.
How is dry eye syndrome diagnosed?
En Nivaria ClinicThe diagnosis is made using a complete evaluation of the ocular surface, what includes:
1. Detailed medical history
Lifestyle, symptoms, screen use, contact lenses, medications, and general medical history are analyzed.
2. Slit-lamp examination
It allows observation of tear quality, the condition of the conjunctiva, cornea, and eyelids. Signs of inflammation or damage to the ocular surface are also evaluated.
3. Specific tests
- Schirmer test: measures the amount of tears produced.
- Break-up time (BUT): evaluates the time it takes for the tear film to break after a blink.
- Fluorescein or rose bengal staining: allows the detection of micro-lesions in the cornea and conjunctiva.
- Meibography: analyzes the condition of the Meibomian glands (eyelids).
- Study of the tear meniscus: using high-resolution images.
These tests help to determine the type of dry eye (water-deficient, evaporative or mixed) and guide the most appropriate treatment.
Dry eye treatment
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the syndrome. Nivaria Clinic, we designed a custom plan which may include the following options:
1. Hygiene and environmental measures
- Blinking more frequently when using screens.
- Avoid direct drafts (fans, air conditioning).
- Use humidifiers in dry environments.
- Rest your eyes every 20 minutes (20-20-20 rule).
- Do not smoke or be exposed to smoke.
2. Artificial tears
They are the basis of treatment in most cases. There are multiple types:
- Gels or drops for daytime use
- Preservative-free formulas for frequent use
- Tears with hyaluronic acid, liposomes or vitamins
The most suitable one is chosen according to the type of dry eye and the patient's needs.
3. Eyelid hygiene
Essential if there is blepharitis or Meibomian gland dysfunction. It includes:
- Hot compresses
- Eyelid massage
- Cleaning with specific wipes or foams
4. Anti-inflammatory treatments
In moderate or severe cases, it may be necessary to add:
- Low-risk corticosteroid eye drops (for a limited time)
- Topical cyclosporin or lifitegrast (immunomodulators)
- Oral omega-3 fatty acids (natural anti-inflammatories)
5. Advanced treatments
At Clínica Nivaria we offer innovative options for chronic or refractory cases:
a) Intense pulsed light (IPL)
A non-invasive therapy that stimulates the Meibomian glands, improves tear quality, and reduces inflammation. Highly effective for evaporative dry eye.
b) Autologous serum
Made from the patient's own blood, this natural eye drop contains growth factors that promote eye regeneration in severe cases.
c) Punctal plugs (tear duct plugs)
They are placed on the tear ducts to prevent tear drainage, increasing tear retention in the eye. They are used in cases of severe or persistent dry eye.
What happens if dry eye is left untreated?
Ignoring or minimizing dry eye can lead to medium and long-term complications, such as:
- Corneal injuries
- Recurrent infections
- Contact lens intolerance
- Decreased visual acuity
- Chronic eye pain
- Impact on quality of life, productivity and sleep
Therefore, in the event of any persistent discomfort, it is essential to have an eye exam.
Can it be prevented?
Although it's not always possible to prevent dry eye, it is possible to manage it. reduce the risk and improve control with these recommendations:
- Take visual breaks while working with screens.
- Avoid environments with very dry or polluted air.
- Do not smoke or expose yourself to smoke.
- Wear glasses with side protection outdoors.
- Maintain a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Hydrate your eyes with artificial tears if you have discomfort.
- Maintain good eyelid hygiene.
Why choose Clínica Nivaria to treat dry eye?
En Nivaria ClinicIn Santa Cruz de Tenerife, we offer an advanced and personalized approach to the treatment of dry eye:
- Ophthalmologists specializing in ocular surface and dry eye syndrome.
- Advanced diagnostic technology (OCT, meibography, tear test).
- Access to Innovative treatments such as IPL and autologous serum.
- Continuous monitoring and therapeutic adaptation.
- Friendly and humane treatment, with patient-centered attention.
Your eye health is not something to take lightly. At Clínica Nivaria, we care for your eyes with the attention they deserve.
La ocular dryness It's a more complex disorder than it seems, and goes far beyond a simple annoyance. It can impair vision, affect daily comfort, and, if left untreated, lead to serious complications.
Therefore, in Nivaria Clinic we invite you to Consult a doctor if you have persistent symptomsWe have the tools and experience to relieve your discomfort and help you regain clear and comfortable vision.
Do you notice dry eyes or visual discomfort?
📍 We look forward to seeing you in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
🌐 Book online.
🕒 Specialized attention and personalized treatments.
Nivaria Clinic: experts in caring for your ocular surface.
