Did You Know: Tear Evaporation Worsens Dry Eye Disease?

More than a million residents in the US are diagnosed with Dry Eye Disease, and over 15% of the world population suffers from it. But these are only confirmed estimates, so it's unnatural to get a grasp on the actual number. However, an optometry specialist adds a revelation to the ongoing studies about dry eye care: tear evaporation likely plays a key role in DED!


What is Tear Evaporation?


In simple terms, tear evaporation is the process where the aqueous substance of the tears evaporates from the eye surface. The tear layer is composed of the lipid (oily) layer, the aqueous (water) layer, and the mucin layer.


In a general scenario, the lipid layer prevents excessive drying or evaporation of tears so the eye can maintain proper lubrication. However, the current environmental factors also play a role in degenerating eye health. For instance, the differences in the humidity levels in the environment and seasonal changes can increase the tear evaporation, thereby decreasing the tear film stability.


Still, this projection does not explain the onset of dry eye disease. So, let's understand the role played by it, if any.


How does Tear Evaporation worsen Eye Health?


An activity as simple as going into cold air to warm air and vice versa can affect the ocular surface of the eyes. Parallelly, the new projection states that tear evaporation may not be a condition for producing tears. Instead, the matter concerns the ability to create them being in imbalance, i.e., a matter of the health of the meibomian glands or the lipid layer.


Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) Causes Evaporative Dry Eye



It is common knowledge that evaporative dry eye is caused by dysfunction of the lipid layer (MGD), but the crux is that it worsens with environmental factors. In addition to it, the increased screen time and exposure to UV rays also serve to add more harm.


How to Prevent Tear Evaporation?


It is highly recommended that you visit the Dry Eye Clinic in Toronto  to obtain the best value eye care. There, you will also learn more about Tear Evaporation and its usefulness from a certified eye care professional.


As for the subject of how to prevent it, the FDA has long approved the Perfluorohexyloctane ophthalmic solution to treat dry eye symptoms and inhibit tear evaporation. Please be alert. This post does not confirm the aforementioned solution as the winning candidate for global peace or immaculate eye care. No.


Instead, the FDA-approved solution presently serves to help optometrists help their patients by preventing inflammation and tear evaporation. It is said that the solution also helps to prevent excessive tear evaporation, but curing dry eye disease is still a long way ahead.


Lastly, for the takeaway, here are some ways you can prevent Tear Evaporation to prevent Dry Eyes in your regular everyday life:

Tear Evaporation

  • Maintain Lid Hygiene by regularly cleaning eyelids with a gentle cleanser.
  • Use Artificial Tears to lubricate your eyes and to keep them moist.
  • Apply a Warm Compress after arriving Indoors to soothe the lipid layer.
  • Blink Frequently, fully, and regularly during prolonged screen use.
  • Use Humidifiers in your living or working environment to prevent tear evaporation.
  • Stay Hydrated.
  • Avoid Direct Airflow from fans, AC, heating vents, etc.
  • Wear a Protective Eyewear to protect eyes from warm or dry eyes.
  • Avoid Smoke and pollutants as they may exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

 To learn more about proper eye care protection tips, please consult the professionals at the Dry Eye Clinic in Toronto.


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