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Dry eye syndrome

• Overview
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Keratitis sicca; Xerophthalmia; Keratoconjunctivitis sicca

Treatment:

Wetting drops called artificial tears may be used for treatment. Lubricating ointments may help more severe cases. Tiny plugs may be placed in the tear drainage ducts to help the tears remain on the surface of the eye.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most patients with dry eye have only discomfort, and no vision loss. With severe cases, the cornea (clear window on the front of the eye) may become damaged or infected.

Complications:

Ulcers or infections of the cornea are serious complications.

Calling your health care provider:

See your health care provider immediately if you have dry eyes and have a sudden increase in discomfort or redness, or a sudden decrease in vision.

• Review Date: 10/20/2006
• Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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