The Dry Eye Syndrome

By Dr. W. Gifford Jones

June 6, 1999

"Thank you for curing my eyes, doctor". This was a patient's surprise remark to me several years ago. Doctors always enjoy hearing that a patient has been cured. But there was a problem in this particular case. Normally I know how I've cured them. But in this case, I hadn't a clue. In fact, to make matters worse I hadn't even prescribed anything for her eyes.

What had happened? The woman, in her 60's, had consulted me for annoying menopausal symptoms. Hot flushes, increased irritability and a desire to kick the cat or whatever else was handy. She was obviously menopausal and needed hormone therapy, namely estrogen.

But during the office visit while sitting across from me she was continually rubbing her eyes. She eventually asked me if I could also prescribe something to stop the eye irritation. I advised her to see an ophthalmologist. But she replied, "I've already seen three without any help". Nor could I suggest a solution when I looked at her eyes.

So it was a trifle embarrassing to take credit for something I hadn't done. But at least she left the office that day thinking I was a genius.

It was only after she had gone that I realized what had happened. I've known for years that estrogen has a major effect on some tissues in the body, particularly the vagina.

Estrogen cream, for instance, can change a sore, ulcerated menopausal vagina into a healthy one in a matter of days. I've often said that if estrogen had the same effect on every tissue of the body we would never grow old.

What I didn't know at the time was that estrogen can also help cure the "dry eye syndrome". And I've seen estrogen help many patients since that time.

Today an increasing number of North Americans are bothered by dry, itchy eyes. But the dry eye syndrome is not a specific disease. Rather, it's a general term indicating only that the eye lacks moisture.

Its symptoms vary from mild discomfort to acute pain. The majority of patients complain of a sensation similar to having something in the eye. Or they may notice redness of the eye, difficulty blinking and sensitivity to light.

Many things bring tears to our eyes. Chopping a pungent onion, seeing our children graduate or a sad movie. But some people do not produce enough tears to keep their eyes moist and free from irritation.

A number of conditions can cause dry eyes. As we age the eye normally becomes drier. It's estimated that by age 45, most people have lost up to 50 percent of their normal tear©producing ability.

The eye can also become dehydrated when exposed to too much wind. Air plane travel may pose a problem as the air on long flights can be quite dry. And the eye can develop allergic reactions to a variety of substances.

Urban life is tough on the eye. Increasing smog in many areas of the country and cigarette smoke are not kind to sensitive eyes.

Check the medicine cabinet if you find yourself frequently rubbing your eyes. It contains a number of possible culprits. For instance, an increasing number of people are using beta©blockers to treat cardiovascular problems.

Other drugs such as those used to treat peptic ulcer, antidepressants, antihistamines, anticholinergic and diuretic drugs can cause that itchy, burning, gritty feeling in the eyes.

Too much caffeine has also been associated with dry eyes. And alcohol due to its diuretic effect on kidneys can be a factor in the parched eye syndrome.

There are several ways to ease this problem without resorting to onions. Artifical tears such as "Cellufresh M.D." is one of the best treatments for dry eyes.

Cellufresh M.D. provided long©lasting relief and contains essential ingredients for eyes. And if your dry eyes are due to age it's necessary to continue using artificial tears.

There are several other practical ways to ease the discomfort. A hot, dry, atmosphere is hard on skin and it's equally tough on the eyes. The use of a humidifier at the maximum vapour level helps to keep moisture on the surface of the eye.

Today some dry eyes are related to the huge number of hours spent at the computer. It's a good idea to take "blink breaks". This helps to ease eye strain and keeps eyes lubricated.

A faulty lifestyle often causes tired gritty eyes. You can't stay up half the night and not expect to rub your eyes in the morning. Here the only prescription is Cellufresh M.D. or a change in living habits.

W. Gifford-Jones M.D is the pen name of Dr. Ken Walker graduate of Harvard. Dr. Walker's website is: Docgiff.com

My book, �90 + How I Got There� can be obtained by sending $19.95 to:

Giff Holdings, 525 Balliol St, Unit # 6,Toronto, Ontario, M4S 1E1

Pre-2008 articles by Gifford Jones

Canada Free Press, CFP Editor Judi McLeod