Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition caused by a lack of adequate tears lubrication. This may be due to inadequate tears or poor-quality tears. It typically affects both eyes and can cause serious discomfort such as stinging, itching or burning sensation.

Tears is made up of water for moisture, oils for lubrication, mucus for even spreading, antibodies and special proteins to fight infection.

A disruption of tear production or imbalance tear composition can lead to dry eye and its associated problems. Common dry eye causes include:

• Environmental factors like dry air, high temperatures or windy weather
• Natural aging process especially menopause
• Side effects of certain drugs like antihistamines
• Infrequent blinking
• Allergies
• Long term use of contact lenses
• Laser eye surgery

Dry eye has a variety of signs and symptoms. These symptoms are typically more pronounced under certain climate conditions, such as dry or windy weather, high temperatures and/or lower humidity. Common signs and symptoms of dry eye include:

• Stinging, burning or itching sensation
• Light sensitivity
• Blurred vision
• Watery eyes
• Eye redness
• Sensation of having something in your eye
• Mucous buildup in/or around the eyes

There are a number of steps that you can take to help avoid dry eye. This includes cleaning the air filters in your home or workplace, and limiting the amount of time spent staring at digital screens.

• Avoid air blowing in your eyes
• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and/or dry weather conditions
• Add moisture to the air
• Take eye breaks during long tasks
• Use artificial tears
• Ensure sufficient eye nutrition that includes Omega-3 fatty acids, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Anthocyanidins, which is found in the herb Bilberry, to improve eye health