Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or produce tears that do not have the proper chemical composition. If untreated, dry eye can damage eye tissue.

The most common symptoms are:

· A sandy, gritty sensation.
· Irritated, scratchy or dry eyes.
· Redness of the eyes.
· A burning sensation of the eyes.
· A feeling of a foreign body in the eye.
· Blurred vision.
· Excessive watering (reflex tearing that flushes normal lubricating oils).

The first line of treatment is the use of lubricating drops (artificial tears). Your doctor will prescribe specific eye drops that can be purchased over-the-counter. They should be used regularly, each day to obtain relief.

Medications are available for those who have a chronic problem which does not respond to artificial tears. There are also nutritional supplements that are helpful for dry eye.

One of the most effective treatments is punctal occlusion. A tiny plug is inserted into the puncta (a small hole in the eyelid), impeding the outflow of natural tears. This procedure takes only a few minutes and can be done in the doctor's office.