Finding Relief for Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome

Chronic dry eye is caused when the tear production decreases to the point that the eyes lack moisture. It can be very irritating and painful to the individual afflicted with this problem. We have tears to protect our eyes, they are not just meant for the sake of displaying emotion. The function that tears play in eye health is extraordinary. Tears wash away harmful elements such as dust and pollen that naturally find their way into our eyes. Tears provide a source of oxygen to the cornea of the eye. Did you know that tears contain dissolved oxygen? Tears are not just water, they are specific to what they eye needs. Tears are made of three different layers. There is a lipid layer that has an oily consistency to it that helps to prevent the eyes from becoming dry through evaporation. The next layer of tears is made of mostly water, and the function is to lubricate the eye. This layer contains lots of nutrients that the eye needs including the oxygen that enters the cornea. The third layer is made up of mucus, which helps the tears stay in your eyes. When you don't have enough of the components that make up tears, you end up with dry eyes. You may have tears and still suffer with dry eye because the parts of your tears are not in the right amount to function properly in eye protection.

Dry eye happens to a lot of people as they age. Men and women have this problem. Women who are going through menopause and those that already have may experience some problems with dry eyes. It is thought that our hormones play a role in the production of tears. You might say, "I cry all the time! How can I not have tears?" You may make tears, but you may not make enough of the natural lubricants within the tears.