Age-Related Dry Eye

 

Clinical features of age-related dry eye:

(1) The reduction in lacrimal secretions starts around 30 years of age and increases as the person gets older. It is common after the age of 60.

(2) The reduction may be affected by hormonal changes, especially in women.

(3) The associated dryness is mild to moderate.

(4) The dryness may go unnoticed unless there is a precipitating event.

(5) The dryness may be noticed only at night when tear production is reduced.

 

Precipitating factors for symptoms of dry eye in a patient with subclinical disease:

(1) contact lens use

(2) exposure to windy weather

(3) exposure to air conditioning or a fan

(4) driving with an open car window

(5) hot weather