Keratoconjunctivitis sicca

Persistent dryness of the eye.

Diffuse lissamine green staining in a person with severe keratoconjunctivitis sicca.

Causes

Causes of dry eyes are many and include the following:

• Age
• Dry environment or workplace
• Sun exposure
• Smoking or second-hand smoke exposure
• Cold or allergy medicines
• Wearing contact lenses
• Heat or chemical burns
• Previous eye surgery
• Use of eye drops for other eye diseases
• Sjögren syndrome

Symptoms

• Symptoms may include:
• Blurred vision
• Burning, itching, or redness in the eye
• Gritty or scratchy feeling in the eye
• Sensitivity to light

Exams and Tests

• Visual acuity measurement
• Slit lamp exam
• Diagnostic staining of the cornea and tear film
• Measurement of tear film break-up time (TBUT)
• Measurement of rate of tear production (Schirmer test)
• Measurement of concentration of tears (osmolality)

Treatment

Artificial tear drops at least 2 to 4 times per day.

Artificial tears brands

Other treatment options

Fish oil 2 to 3 times per day Glasses, goggles or contact lenses that keep moisture in the eyes Medicines such as Restasis, Xiidra, topical corticosteroids, and oral tetracycline and doxycycline Tiny plugs placed in the tear drainage ducts to help moisture stay on the surface of the eye longer

Prognosis

Most people with dry eye have only discomfort, and no vision loss.

Complications

In severe cases, the clear covering on the eye (cornea) may become damaged or infected.

Frequently asked questions

• What causes keratoconjunctivitis sicca?

• Can keratoconjunctivitis sicca be cured?

• What is the difference between dry eye syndrome and keratoconjunctivitis sicca?

• What is Sjogren's syndrome with keratoconjunctivitis sicca?

• Is keratoconjunctivitis sicca permanent?

• Does keratoconjunctivitis sicca cause blindness?

• Can you go blind from keratitis?

• Can you overuse eye drops?

• What is a good vitamin for dry eyes?

• Is dry eye a serious condition?

• What is the best over the counter eye drops for dry eyes?

• Is Dry Eye a permanent condition?

• Will Sjogren's shorten my life?

• What is the difference between Sjogren's and sicca syndrome?

• What is the best treatment for Sjogren's syndrome?

• Should you close your eyes after eye drops?

• What happens if you put too many eye drops in?

• How long does it take to go blind from glaucoma?

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