1	Dry Eye
2	Tears are an important part of the healthy eye A healthy tear film, spread across the eye by a blink, makes the surface of the eye smooth and clear. Without an adequate tear film, sharp vision is not possible.
3	Tears that lubricate—the tear film—are constantly produced by a healthy eye The tear film consists of three layers: An oily layer (produced by the meibomian glands in the eyelid): forms the outermost surface of the tear film, smoothing the tear surface and reducing evaporation of tears. A watery middle layer (produced by the lacrimal gland): cleanses the eye and washes away foreign particles or irritants. An inner layer of mucus (produced by the conjunctiva): allows the watery layer to spread evenly over the surface of the eye and helps the eye remain moist.
4	How are tears produced? Tears are produced by two different methods: Slow, steady (basal) rate–responsible for normal eye lubrication. Excessive (reflex) rate–producing large quantities of tears in response to eye irritation or emotions. When the eye is irritated, the lacrimal gland produces a large volume of tears that can overwhelm the tear drainage system and overflow from your eye.
5	What is dry eye? Dry eye occurs when our eye does not produce enough tears or appropriate quality of tears to keep the eye healthy and comfortable. Excessive tearing can occur when: Eye is irritated by a foreign body. Eye is overcompensating for dryness (if there are not enough necessary tears lubricating the eye). A person becomes emotional (cries).
6	What are the symptoms of dry eye? Stinging or burning eyes. Scratchiness. Stringy mucus in or around the eyes. Excessive eye irritation from smoke or wind. Excess tearing. Difficulty wearing contact lenses. Momentary or persistent blurring of vision that may fluctuate with each blink.
7	What causes dry eye? Tear production normally decreases as we age. Although dry eye can occur in both men and women at any age, women are most often affected, especially after menopause.
8	What causes dry eye? Sjögren's syndrome Autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands. Most common symptoms are dry eyes and dry mouth. Nine out of ten Sjögren’s patients are women.
9	What causes dry eye? Prescription and over-the-counter medications. Diuretics Beta-blockers Antihistamines Sleeping pills Anxiety medications Pain relievers Since these medications are often necessary, the dry eye condition may have to be tolerated or treated with artificial tears.
10	What causes dry eye? Eyelid problems such as blepharitis, meibomitis and rosacea. Affect the outer oily layer of the tear film, causing excessive evaporation of the natural tears from the eye.
11	What causes dry eye? Rare diseases such as Vitamin A deficiency, Stevens Johnson syndrome and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP). Affects the inner mucous layer of the tear film and prevents the natural tear film from adhering to the eye.
12	How is dry eye diagnosed? An ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) diagnoses dry eye by examining your eyes. Two tests that measure tear production: Schirmer tear test: filter-paper strips placed under the lower eyelids to measure the rate of tear production under various conditions. Diagnostic drop test: looks for certain patterns of surface eye dryness.
13	How is dry eye treated? Eyedrops (artificial tears) Artificial tears, similar to your own tears, lubricate the eyes and help replace the natural moisture layer of the tear film. Available without a prescription; can be used as often as necessary. If you are sensitive to the preservatives in artificial tears, preservative-free eyedrops are available.
14	How is dry eye treated? Conserving the tears Tears drain out of the eye through a small channel into the nose. Your ophthalmologist may close these channels either temporarily or permanently; conserves your own tears and makes artificial tears last longer.
15	How is dry eye treated? Prevent tear evaporation When indoor heat is on, keep a humidifier or pan of water in the room to add moisture to dry air. Wearing wrap-around glasses to reduce direct exposure to the elements (wind and sunlight) may reduce dry eye.
16	Dry eye shouldn’t interfere with your lifestyle Talk with your ophthalmologist about treatment options.