Medical Encyclopaedia › Dry eye (short definition)
In brief: In dry eye, the tear film is disturbed: too little tear fluid is produced, or it evaporates too quickly. The eye is no longer adequately moistened and protected. The symptoms are common and increase with age.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms are burning, itching, a foreign-body or gritty sensation, red eyes, sensitivity to light and fluctuating vision. Paradoxically, the eyes can also water, because the irritated surface triggers reflex tear production.
Causes
A common cause is dysfunction of the meibomian glands at the edge of the eyelid, whose oily layer slows evaporation. Screen work with infrequent blinking, dry air from heating or air conditioning, contact lenses, hormonal changes during the menopause, certain medicines and diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome can favour dry eye.
Treatment
Artificial tears form the basis. Preservative-free drops, for example with hyaluronic acid, are suitable for frequent use; in meibomian gland dysfunction, lipid-containing preparations can be useful. Warm compresses and regular lid-margin care improve the function of the meibomian glands. In persistent cases, the ophthalmologist can prescribe anti-inflammatory drops.
Everyday life
Blinking consciously and taking breaks during screen work, airing rooms, adequate humidity and avoiding draughts relieve the eyes. Severe pain, a marked deterioration in vision or a very red eye should be examined by an ophthalmologist.
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Eye drops, Blepharitis, Sjögren’s syndrome, Contact lenses, Conjunctivitis
Sources
- Berufsverband der Augenärzte (BVA) und Deutsche Ophthalmologische Gesellschaft (DOG): Leitlinie Nr. 11 Trockenes Auge (Sicca-Syndrom)
- IQWiG: gesundheitsinformation.de – Gesundheitsinformationen des Instituts für Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit im Gesundheitswesen
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.