Relationship between Dry Eyes and Hot Weather in GCC
According to a study, almost 2/3rd of UAE residents suffer from dry eye disease or Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca.
The figures may be daunting, but the hot climate, low humidity, and excessive air conditioning cause severe reduction in tear production. The dry eye sensation can interfere with daily activities, necessitating the use of eye drops regularly. It may also cause inflammation and stinging in the eyes that can be reduced with the help of prescription drops.
Read on to learn more about this condition and how it can be treated.
Dry Eye Disease
Gulf countries are facing a growing epidemic of dry eye disease. Typically, this condition occurs during dry weather or in dry environments since both conditions diminish tear film and lubrication around the eyes.
In this condition, your tear ducts do not produce enough tears to keep them lubricated and nourished. Or the tears produced are of poor quality or inadequate to support lubrication. As a result, the eyes become itchy and irritated, leading to severe discomfort.
Since there is insufficient lubrication for the eyes, the vision may also get compromised in most situations, especially while driving. This disease is more prevalent in Gulf countries due to the warm weather and low humidity levels.
Classification of Dry Eye Disease
It is essential to understand that not all forms of dry eye disease are life-limiting. Most people have a mild case of DED, which can be treated easily with organic drops and medication. But, severe cases may require appropriate intervention.
Below we have briefly defined the severity and types of Dry Eyes.
Severity of Dry Eyes:
DED can be categorized into three severity levels:
- MILD
In this case, the patient may have mild conjunctivital signs based on environmental conditions with no corneal signs. Like, extremely dry weather may cause sudden stinging or burning in the eyes. This condition may cause mild or episodic fatigue. Mild cases of dry eyes don’t usually require treatment. However, people should take precautions like avoiding smoky environments and using warm compresses to relieve the symptoms. - MODERATE
Moderate cases may cause epithelial erosion, punctate keratopathy, and filamentary keratitis. This level of DED can lead to episodic symptoms and be somewhat life-limiting. Most moderate and severe cases require anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids and cyclosporine A 0.05 %. - SEVERE
Severe DED can possibly be disabling due to constant pain, burning, blurred vision, and itching in the eyes. This can hamper daily life activities making the patient dependent. Artificial tears remain the top option to treat DED. The drops may help relieve the symptoms but don’t aid in curing the condition.
Types of Dry Eyes:
- Evaporative Dry Eye
This condition is caused by inflammation of the Meibomian glands. Consequently, the tears produced evaporate faster than usual due to the damaged lipid layer in your tear film. - Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye
This type of DED occurs when the lacrimal glands produce low levels of tears’ water component. As a result, the eyes’ surface is not adequately hydrated.
Risk Factors for Dry Eyes
Does hot weather cause dry eyes? Yes, hot and dry weather is one of the primary causes of dry eyes. The hot climate causes the tears to evaporate much quicker, leaving the eyes parched and irritated.
Here are some other risk factors of the DED:
- Age
- Working and living environment
- Screen time
- Contact lens use[1]
Dry Eye Symptoms
According to a study, dry eye is prevalent in older people as they risk losing moisture and lubrication in their eyes.[2]
Here are some symptoms to look out for if you suspect that your eyes are getting irritated and red:
- Redness
- Light sensitivity
- Watery eyes
- Stinging or burning sensation
Early Detection of Dry Eyes
Like every other condition, dry eyes need proper caution and attention to cure. Though dry eyes in a dry climate are not uncommon, any discomfort or pain should be taken seriously. A severe case of DED can end up causing other conditions like eye inflammation, corneal ulcer, or partial blindness.
Treatment of Dry Eye Disease
Simple home remedies for dry eyes include wearing sunglasses and limiting exposure to dry environments. You can also try warm compresses and eyewash to relieve any irritation. These conventional ways may provide temporary relief but won’t be helpful in every case.
Visiting a doctor is imperative if the condition is severe. They will prescribe some eye drops to deal with the issue immediately. According to research, drops containing 0.3% hyaluronic acid improves the overall symptoms of DED.[3]
VISMED GEL contains 0.3% hyaluronic acid and is really efficient in relieving pain caused by dry eyes.
Conclusion
Dry eye symptoms and treatment might not be a medical emergency, but losing the fluid film around the eye sockets can be daunting.
If you live in hot countries like the Gulf countries, take the necessary precautions and incorporate a healthy lifestyle to save your vision.
Besides, visit TRB to get the best eye drops to protect your eyes from dryness, dust, and smog.
[1] Alkabbani, S., Jeyaseelan, L., Rao, A. P., Thakur, S. P., & Warhekar, P. T. (2021). The prevalence, severity, and risk factors for dry eye disease in Dubai–a cross sectional study. BMC ophthalmology, 21(1), 1-7.
[2] Yasir, Z. H., Chauhan, D., Khandekar, R., Souru, C., & Varghese, S. (2019). Prevalence and determinants of dry eye disease among 40 years and older population of Riyadh (except capital), Saudi Arabia. Middle East African Journal of Ophthalmology, 26(1), 27.
[3] You, I. C., Li, Y., Jin, R., Ahn, M., Choi, W., & Yoon, K.C. (2018). Comparison of 0.1%, 0.18%, and 0.3% hyaluronic acid eye drops in the treatment of experimental dry eye. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther, 34(8):557-564.