Dry eye syndrome may require a corneal transplant

Mexico

Two out of ten people in the world suffer from dry eye syndromewhich, if not treated in time, may result in the need for corneal transplantOptometrist Leticia Orozco told Efe.

"It's a multifactorial disease which is characterized by decreased tear production or increased evaporation of the tear film, resulting in an alteration of the visual acuity with potential damage to the ocular surface, "said the expert.

According to the Conde de Valenciana Institute of Ophthalmology, nine out of ten Mexican patients with eye problems suffer from dry eye syndrome.

"If it is not detected and the appropriate treatment is not applied, dry eye syndrome may require a corneal transplant, a surgical procedure whereby a damaged cornea is replaced by a normal cornea, "said the expert.

Among the main symptoms of this disease are burning eyes, excessive tearing, irritated eyes on waking and the feeling of dust working on the computer, watching television or reading, Orozco explained.

"The bottom line is that it affects everyday activities because a person with this condition may be very sensitive to light, tingling, itching, which affects their daily activities such as driving at night or reading. ", did he declare.

He explained that women are more likely to suffer from this disease and that, as of age 50, people have more risk or complications because of diseases such as lupus, arthritis, rheumatism and other autoimmune diseases.

Dry eye is also associated with the constant use of electronic devices such as tablet and computer because the tear tends to evaporate more easily, as well as activities requiring a total attention, because the frequency of blinking is less.

The specialist explained that a person may realize that she is suffering from this disease when she does not see it so clearly, which indicates that the tear is not in good condition. ", did he declare.

He explained that the important thing is to diagnose this disease in time to attack it in time and avoid more serious consequences.

As the symptoms are usually not accurate, the specialist says it is currently estimated that about 300 million people worldwide are undiagnosed.

"The population does not easily suspect having dry eyes because it often thinks that she has tears in her eyes," he said.

He explained that for this reason, many patients often buy a lubricant without knowing which one and this can affect the establishment of effective treatment, because "no lubricant can be used to eliminate discomfort" , did he declare.

Orozco noted that patients with rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or hypertension were more likely to suffer from this disease because some of their medications altered the production of tears.

Spending a lot of time in front of the computer or television without blinking can also affect the development of this suffering.

Among the prevention recommendations, the optometrist said that it was essential, in addition to an annual review, to avoid touching the eyes with dirty hands.

Similarly, if you have to work frequently in front of electronic devices, try to frequently blink and use visual correction, such as glasses or contact lenses, and work at an appropriate distance.

"It is essential not to stop blinking and, in your case, to apply artificial tears when using electronic devices or when performing tasks requiring a fixed gaze, but always advised by a specialist, "he concluded. EFE