Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs due to a disruption in the quality of tears, which causes insufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye. This results in either reduced tear production or increased tear evaporation.
This disruption causes symptoms such as discomfort, burning sensation, gritty eyes or scratching. Although dry eye is considered to be a chronic condition, it is possible to alleviate the symptoms and slow down further deterioration.
The most common symptoms are the sensations of burning, scratching, presence of a foreign body or sand in the eyes (redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light). One of the first signs may be increased redness occurring as a reaction to the irritation caused by dryness of the eye surface.
Factors such as: prolonged looking at screens, dry air, strong sun, wind, wearing contact lenses or taking certain medications, older age, and hormonal changes can contribute to dry eyes.
Problems with dry eye begin without major symptoms, but gradually get worse. The most common complaints are eye irritation, sensation of a foreign body in the eye, sometimes itching, with pain and strong sensitivity to light in the advanced stage of the condition.
It is important to pay attention to these symptoms and manage them in a timely manner to prevent further exacerbation. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of the symptoms or do not attach enough importance to them, which leads to an aggravation of the condition. As with many other health issues, in this case, too, prevention is the best strategy.
Dry eye syndrome can be caused by various factors, disruptions in the composition of the tear film being among the most common. Tears are a complex mixture that includes water, lipids, proteins, electrolytes, protective substances against microbes and growth factors. The tear film is formed on the surface of the eye and consists of three layers: lipid, aqueous and mucin.
Each component has the function of protecting and caring for the front surface of the eye. The smooth lipid layer prevents the aqueous layer from drying out, i.e. prevents the evaporation of tears and reduces surface tension (stabilizes the tear film), and is secreted by the Meibomian glands. The middle aqueous layer contains lysozyme and immunoglobulin A (IgA), and is secreted by the tear glands. The function of the mucin layer is to distribute tears uniformly over the surface of the eye. This inner layer of mucin secreted by conjunctival cells and tear glands has the role of moistening and additionally stabilizing the tear film. If tears evaporate too quickly or are not distributed evenly over the cornea due to a lack of any of these three layers, symptoms of dry eye develop.
Changes in these layers change the composition of the tear film and the surface of the eye becomes unprotected, which can result in dryness of the eye. Causes may include eyelid problems, use of certain medications, or external influences such as the sun and the wind. Although many assume that dry eye always means lack of tears (hyposecretory form), in reality increased evaporation (hyperevaporation) is a much more common cause of dry eye.
In the hyposecretory form of dry eye, the problem is insufficient tear production, whereas in the hyperevaporative form, the problem is increased evaporation due to changes in the lipid layer of the tear film. The lipid layer, consisting of lipids produced in the Meibomian glands, prevents the evaporation of tears and ensures their stability on the surface of the eye. A disruption in this layer results in excessive evaporation, which causes symptoms of dry eye even if tears are secreted in appropriate amounts.
Paradoxically, in the hyperevaporative form of dryness eyes may be tearing increasingly because they secrete more tears in an attempt to compensate for the loss of tears due to faster evaporation. Along with symptoms of discomfort, irritation and dryness, the appearance of increased tearing can often be confusing. Once the correct diagnosis has been established, treatment depends on the cause, and is most often aimed at restoring the lipid layer.
Dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is a condition that affects an increasing number of people and occurs due to inadequate tear quality, which in turn causes insufficient lubrication and moisturization of the eye surface. This results in either reduced production of tears or increased tear evaporation. It is important to recognize the symptoms on time, as this can make it easier to choose an adequate product.
The tear film covers the surface of the eye and is essential for moistening and protecting the cornea, and consists of three layers: mucin, aqueous and lipid. The lipid layer is on the outside and prevents the evaporation of tears, thereby maintaining the stability of the tear film and longer lasting moistening of the eye.
In the hyperevaporative form of dry eye, the problem is excessive evaporation caused by the damaged lipid layer of the tear film, and not by a lack of tears. Drops containing only sodium hyaluronate, which primarily acts as a lubricant, are often not effective enough in these cases, as they cannot replace the damaged lipid layer which is essential in preventing evaporation.
For this reason, drops containing a lipid component are essential for the treatment of hyperevaporative dry eye syndrome. The lipids in these drops regenerate and strengthen the lipid layer of the tear film, creating a protective barrier that reduces tear evaporation. This not only improves the long-lasting hydration of the eye, but also reduces the burning sensation, dryness and irritation that are common symptoms of dry eye.
Persons suffering from the hyperevaporative form of dry eye are recommended to use drops containing a lipid component.
They help restore the lipid layer of the tear film and efficiently reduce the evaporation of tears, while drops containing only sodium hyaluronate do not provide adequate protection in this form of dry eye. Therefore, it is important to use appropriate lipid-containing therapy to ensure long-term symptom relief.
Why choose a preservative-free product?
Dry eye drops without preservatives should be chosen for several reasons:
1. Less irritation: Preservatives can irritate the eyes especially in people who already have sensitive or dry eyes. Preservative-free drops reduce the risk of additional irritation.
2. Safety during frequent use: Preservative-free eye drops are safer for frequent use, especially for people who need to use them multiple times a day. Preservatives can accumulate in the eye and damage the eye surface when overused.
3. Suitable for contact lenses: Preservatives can damage or remain on the surface of contact lenses, causing discomfort. Preservative-free drops are safe for people who wear contact lenses.
4. Lower risk of allergic reactions Preservatives can cause allergic reactions, and choosing preservative-free drops reduces this risk.
5. Better long-term tolerability: Long-term use of drops containing preservatives can cause damage to the eye surface or the toxicity syndrome due to the accumulation of preservatives. Preservative-free drops are gentler for long-term eye care.
Preservative-free eye drops or eye spray are generally a better choice for people who care about long-term safety and comfort.
Lagophthalmos is a condition in which the eyelids cannot close completely, resulting in incomplete eye closure. This can lead to eye problems, as eyelids play a key role in protecting the eye, maintaining moisture, and preventing foreign particles from entering. When the eye remains partially open, corneal dryness occurs, which can cause discomfort, irritation, or even more serious complications if not treated.
When does lagophthalmos occur?
Lagophthalmos can be caused by various factors, including:
Facial nerve paralysis (Bell’s palsy):
This is one of the most common types of lagophthalmos, which occurs due to nerve damage.
Damage following facial or eye surgery:
Surgical procedures near the eye or face can lead to damage of the nerves or muscles that close the eyelids.
Eyelid scars:
Scar tissue that develops after an injury or surgery can prevent the eyelids from closing completely.
Exophthalmos (bulging eyes):
Certain conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, can cause the eyeball to protrude, making it difficult to close the eyelids.
Symptoms
People with lagophthalmos often experience:
- Dryness and burning sensation in the eyes,
- Redness,
- Increased sensitivity to light,
- Blurred vision,
- In severe cases, corneal damage (keratitis) or eye infection may occur.
How can I help myself?
If you have lagophthalmos, there are several ways you can relieve the symptoms and protect your eyes:
- Use of artificial tears: Eye drops containing sodium hyaluronate that moisturize the cornea and help maintain eye moisture and reduce irritation. PROLUXX NIGHT EYE OINTMENT containing 0.4% sodium hyaluronate in the form of ointment is particularly suitable due to its prolonged retention on the surface of the cornea, and is applied in the evening at bedtime.
- Wearing protective glasses or covers: Protective glasses or special eye patches can prevent particles from entering and reduce eye dryness. Wearing glasses can also help reduce the feeling of dryness caused by wind or dust.
- Eyelid massage and exercises: Physiotherapy, which includes eyelid massage or special exercises, can help with mild facial nerve paralysis to stimulate the return of function.
- Taping eyelids at night: Special strips or patches can be used to close the eyelids during sleep, thus preventing the cornea from drying out. This method is useful for maintaining eye moisture, especially in people who have trouble closing the eyelids completely.
- Underlying condition treatment: If lagophthalmos is caused by a particular condition, such as facial nerve paralysis or exophthalmos, the underlying condition should be treated to reduce symptoms.
- Surgical procedure: If lagophthalmos is caused by a particular condition, such as facial nerve paralysis or exophthalmos, the underlying condition should be treated to reduce symptoms.
Lagophthalmos can be an unpleasant and potentially serious condition, but with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment the symptoms can be significantly reduced and the eyes protected. See your ophthalmologist regularly and follow the advice to preserve eye health.
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Blue light belongs to the spectrum of visible light with a short wavelength (400-500 nm), has more energy per photon than other light of the visible spectrum, and is therefore more likely to cause damage when absorbed by various cells, such as that of the eye, while also being able to cause oxidative stress in retinal cells. Blue light is emitted by the screens of electronic devices such as computers, cell phones, and televisions.
Incomplete blinks and eye surface
One of the problems associated with looking at screens is the reduced frequency and quality of blinking. Normally, we blink about 15 to 20 times per minute. Blinking plays a key role in maintaining eye surface health because each blink distributes the tear film evenly over the cornea, moisturizes it and removes fine particles and impurities.
When looking at screens for a long time, the frequency of blinking can fall to less than half of the usual frequency. Moreover, the blinks become incomplete, which means that the eyelids do not cover the surface of the eye completely, and tear glands cannot distribute the tear film evenly. As a result, the eye surface becomes hyperosmolar – the concentration of salt in tears increases, which causes the eye surface to dry out.
Hyperosmolar surface and inflammatory processes
Hyperosmolarity of the eye surface leads to irritation of the corneal epithelium and the conjunctiva, which can cause tiny lesions and activation of inflammatory processes. These processes further weaken the eye’s natural defense mechanisms. In the long term, this can lead to the development of dry eye syndrome, which is manifested by symptoms such as gritty eyes, burning, redness, and reduced clarity of vision.
In addition, long-term dryness can reduce the quality of vision and cause permanent changes on the eye surface, increasing the risk of developing more serious conditions such as inflammatory diseases of the eye surface or even corneal damage.
Conclusion:
Blue light and prolonged looking at screens can pose a risk to eye health. Proper eye hygiene, including regular breaks (20-20-20 rule) and regular moistening of the eye with artificial tears can help reduce these risks.
Contact lenses are very practical, but proper maintenance is of paramount importance to be able to both maintain eye health and lens comfort and lifespan.
Here are some basic steps to store and maintain contact lenses properly:
1. Cleaning and disinfection
After each wearing, contact lenses should be cleaned thoroughly. Use an appropriate contact lens solution (e.g. PROLUXX ALL in One Sensitive). The solution disinfects and removes impurities and deposits that accumulate on the lens during the day. Never use tap water or any other liquid than the solution intended for contact lenses, as this may cause infection.
2. Hand washing
Before handling the lenses, always wash your hands with soap and water and dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. Dirty hands can transfer bacteria to the lenses, which can cause serious eye infections.
3. Regular contact lens solution replacement
After each wearing, replace the solution in the lens container. The old solution can be contaminated with microorganisms, which increases the risk of infections. Never add new solution to the old one, but empty the container completely every time and fill it with fresh solution.
4. Keeping the lenses in the proper container
The lens container should be clean and dry. The recommendation is to change the lens container every three months to reduce the possibility of contamination. When not wearing contact lenses, always store them in a closed container filled with solution.
5. Observing the shelf life of contact lenses
Each type of contact lens has the recommended period of wear, whether we are talking about daily, weekly or monthly lenses. It is important not to exceed this period, even if your lenses seem comfortable, as older lenses can lose their properties and become uncomfortable or cause irritation and infections.
6. Regular ophthalmology check-ups
Visits to the ophthalmologist are important to check the condition of the eyes and ensure the correct use of contact lenses. If you experience symptoms such as redness, itching, blurred vision or pain, contact a specialist immediately.
Taking proper care of contact lenses not only extends their lifespan, but also ensures the health of your eyes. Using recommended products, maintaining hygiene, and regular check-ups are essential for a safe and comfortable contact lens experience.
Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin membrane covering the inside of the eyelid and the white of the eye, caused by an allergic reaction to certain substances. This problem often occurs seasonally, usually in spring, late summer and early autumn, when there are more allergens like pollen in the air, or year-round in response to indoor allergens such as mites, dust, or pet hair. Allergy symptoms can also be caused by some medications and cosmetics.
How to recognize allergic conjunctivitis?
Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis are often similar to other forms of eye irritation, but are caused by an allergic reaction. The main signs include:
- Eye redness: blood vessels in the conjuctiva expand due to an allergic inflammatory reaction.
- Eye itching: one of the most unpleasant symptoms, often provokes the need to rub the eyes, which can aggravate the condition.
- Excessive tearing: eyes may tear continually, especially during immediate exposure to the allergen.
- Swollen eyelids: eyelids may become swollen due to an allergic reaction.
- Discharge: usually translucent, watery or whitish, as opposed to bacterial infections that cause dense yellow or greenish secretions.
What causes allergic conjunctivitis?
Allergic conjunctivitis is a reaction of the immune system to allergens such as pollen, dust, mold, pet dandruff, or chemicals in cosmetics and detergents. When the eye comes into contact with an allergen, the immune system releases histamines and other chemical substances that cause an inflammatory reaction and symptoms such as itching and redness. People with pre-existing allergies, such as hay fever or asthma, are more prone to developing allergic conjunctivitis.
Allergic conjunctivitis treatment
The treatment of allergic conjunctivitis usually involves a combination of avoiding the allergen and using medications to relieve symptoms. Some of the most common ways include:
- Eye drops containing an antihistamine: block the effect of histamine and reduce the itching and tearing symptoms.
- Drops with artificial tears: help flush allergens out of the eyes and moisturize the eyes to reduce irritation.
- Eye drops containing a corticosteroid: used in more severe cases when other treatments do not bring relief, but are used for short periods of time due to possible side effects. Corticosteroid-containing eye drops are administered as recommended by an ophthalmologist.
- Eye drops containing sodium hyaluronate and perilla extract: moisturize and protect the eye surface, while perilla helps alleviate the symptoms of irritation due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
- Cold packs: can reduce symptoms and provide immediate relief.
Allergic conjunctivitis can significantly impair the quality of life, especially during the allergy season, but timely recognition of symptoms and proper treatment can relieve problems. In addition to classic medications, natural products containing natural supplements such as perilla extract can provide valuable support in relieving symptoms.
