What is dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that, surprisingly, is a frequent cause of excessively watery eyes.

How does it occur?

There are two different types of tears: lubricating tears and reflex tears. Lubricating tears help protect your eyes against the elements and keep your vision clear. These tears contain a precise balance of water, mucus, and oil. They coat the eyes with a slow, steady flow throughout the day.

The other type, reflex tears, flood the eye suddenly whenever the eye is irritated. In fact, they flood the eyes to such a degree that tears may spill down your cheek. This excessive watering can occur when the eyes are irritated by smoke, smog, an onion, or other irritants. It can also happen when your eyes are not protected adequately by lubricating tears.

People with dry eye syndrome do not have enough lubricating tears, or their tears lack the proper chemical balance. Their eyes burn and sting. Their vision can be slightly blurred. Reflex tearing occurs as an emergency response to the dry eyes. The reflex tears then overflow the tear drainage system and cause watery eyes.

Dry eye syndrome often occurs as a side effect of certain medicines, as a complication of some types of arthritis, or because you are getting older. It may also occur if your tears evaporate too quickly, as might happen, for example, if you have exophthalmos (bulging eyes).

What are the symptoms?

Possible symptoms include:

• burning of your eyes

• excessive watering

• a feeling like there is sand in your eyes.

How is it treated?

Frequent use of artificial teardrops, and sometimes artificial tear ointments, usually relieve the symptoms. You can buy these medicines without a prescription.

If these products don't help, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as:

• artificial tear inserts that dissolve slowly when you place them under the eyelid

• temporary plugs that block the tear drain (the punctum) so the eye can make full use of the few lubricating tears it does produce

• laser treatment or minor surgery to close off the punctum.

Although dry eye syndrome can be irritating, proper treatment can usually help you keep the condition under control.