The Silent Strain: Why dry eyes are new urban epidemic
Dry eye disease is rapidly common due to prolonged use of screen and environmental factors. If untreated, it can lead to severe eye damage and vision problems.
In short
- Dry eye disease occurs when tear production or quality is inadequate
- Excessive screen reduces the time blink rate that causes dryness
- Environmental pollution and air conditioning spoiled eye irritation
Dry, itching and irritated eyes often feel like a small annoyance. But even a condition of ignoring without indications such as redness and radiation may begin, called Dry Eye Disease (DED).
Dry eyes occur when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or when tears are not good, to keep the surface of the eye properly moisturized. Without this safety, the eyes become swollen, irritated and even damaged over time.
What is the reason for dry eyes?
Tears are a complex mixture of oil, water and mucus. If any part of this delicate balance is interrupted, this tear can break the film.
Results: Dryness, blurred vision, a burning sensation, or even water eyes – refvere for body irritation.
Some of the most common symptoms include: a serious feeling in the eyes, irritation or pricking, redness and light sensitivity, ups and downs, and blurred vision and excessive tearing (response to dryness).
Dr. According to Parul Maheshwari Sharma, the senior ophthalmologist of Fortis Gurugram, more and more people, including young adults, are coming in clinics with dry eye symptoms. And the reasons are many.
Why is dry eye so much now?
One of the greatest convicts is excessive screen time.
“When we stare at the digital screen for a long time, our blink rate falls,” Dr. Sharma says. “This means that tears evaporate rapidly, causing dryness.” Incomplete blinking is another hidden trigger, we do not completely close our eyes during each blink, which affects how tears spread in the eyes.
But it is not just about the screen. Modern lifestyle and environment are also guilty.
Urban pollution and dust disturb the eyes, air-conditioning and low humidity tear dry the film, wearing contact lenses can lead to interference in tear production, aging and hormonal changes, especially in postmenopausal women, can reduce natural tear flow.
Just more than a screen problem
Dr. Sharma explains that dry eyes are not only due to external factors. Sometimes, they may be a sign of deep health issues or lifestyle habits:
Autoimmune diseases such as syndrome, rheumatism, and thyroid disorders of Sjogren can all contribute to dry eyes. Diabetes and rosesia can also disrupt tear gland function.
Common drugs, including acne treatment such as antihistamines, antidepressants, oral contraceptives and isotratinoin can interfere with tear production.
Constant use of eye makeup, Barauni extensions, and cosmetic eye processes (such as lasik or botox around the eyes) can block or damage the oil glands that help to produce tears.
Dr. Sharma has highlighted low levels of vitamin A and omega -3 fatty acids, which are associated with poor tear quality. Add that old stress and lack of sleep, and eyes pay the price.
Most environmental triggers such as long flights, dry climate, or even an air day can strip moisture from the eyes, especially if you are prone to a dry eye already.
Why should you not ignore it
Dr. Sharma warned, “Dry eye is not just an inconvenience.” “If left untreated, it can give rise to chronic inflammation, corneal damage, and even clearly affect your ability to see.” In severe cases, people can struggle with daily tasks such as reading, driving or working on computer.
But the good news is that the dry eye is treated.
Treatment often begins with smooth eye drops, also known as artificial tears. For more important cases, doctors may recommend:
- Change in lifestyle (eg regular screen break)
- Nutrition supplements (omega -3 fatty acids)
- Leaflet drugs
- In-office procedures to unblock the tear glands or reduce inflammation
Do not do self-healing
Dr. Says Sharma, “Many people ignore the symptoms or keep using an over-the-counter drop without seeing the doctor.” “This can make things worse. A proper diagnosis and customized treatment plan can create a big difference.”
If you are constantly experiencing eye discomfort, especially in today’s screen-dark world, do not stop it.
Your eyes are trying to tell you something.
