What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is a condition in which the eyes are unable to produce sufficient tears — a balanced combination of water, oils, and mucus — or when tears evaporate too quickly.

This commonly leads to uncomfortable symptoms such as burning, itching, redness, eye fatigue, and reduced visual quality.

Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome may develop due to various factors, including:

• Side effects of certain medications, including:

  • Antihistamines

  • Sedatives

  • Pain relievers

  • Diuretics

  • Contraceptives

  • Antidepressants

  • Medications for hypertension and Parkinson’s disease

• Eyelid and periocular skin conditions

• Dysfunction of the meibomian glands

• Pregnancy

• Hormonal therapy in women

  • Estrogen therapy may increase eye dryness by up to 70%

  • Combination with progesterone may increase dryness by approximately 30%

• Chemical injuries or thermal burns affecting the eyelids or ocular surface

• Allergies

• Reduced blinking associated with excessive screen use

• Vitamin deficiency or excessive vitamin intake

• Certain homeopathic medications that may worsen dry eye symptoms

• Long-term contact lens use causing reduced corneal sensitivity

• Other contributing factors

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

Common symptoms include:

• Burning sensation

• Itching

• Foreign body sensation

• Mucous discharge

• Eye irritation

• Feeling of heaviness in the eyes

• Blurred vision

• Eye fatigue

• Excessive tearing

• Inability to produce tears during emotional moments

• Contact lens intolerance

• Eye strain during reading or prolonged computer use

Recommendations for Relieving Dry Eye Symptoms

To reduce dry eye discomfort, the following measures may help:

• Use artificial tears

• Wear protective glasses

• Use air purifiers to reduce dust and airborne particles

• Use humidifiers to maintain proper indoor air moisture

• Rest your eyes after prolonged visual strain

• Consider punctal plug implantation
  Lacrimal (tear duct) plugs help retain tears on the ocular surface and are an effective treatment option for some patients.

Alternative Dry Eye Treatment at Akhali Mzera Eye Clinic — IPL Therapy

At Akhali Mzera Eye Clinic, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy is actively used for the treatment of dry eye syndrome.

IPL is a highly effective and painless procedure that typically lasts approximately 10–15 minutes.

During several treatment sessions, the ophthalmologist uses a specialized Intense Pulsed Light device to stimulate the meibomian glands. This process helps improve tear production and strengthens the protective tear film.

As a result, patients experience gradual relief from dryness-related discomfort, with the eyes becoming progressively more hydrated and comfortable after several sessions.

Specialists

• Nino Liluashvili

• Natia Beroshvili

• Tamar Chitadze