Dry eye syndrome

Also known as: Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, DES, DED

A chronic condition in which insufficient or poor-quality tears fail to keep the ocular surface lubricated, producing a burning, gritty, or scratchy sensation.

Dry eye syndrome ranges from mild screen-related dryness to chronic dysfunction requiring clinical treatment. Screen use accelerates symptoms because blink rate drops by roughly 60 percent during focused close work, leaving the tear film unrenewed. Age (tear production declines), certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure drugs), contact lens wear, and Sjögren's syndrome all increase risk. The 20-20-20 rule helps by naturally restoring blink rate during breaks. Preservative-free artificial tears, warm compresses, and a clinical evaluation are next-line.