Continuous tear production keeps the eyes lubricated and
protects them from infection and or irritation. Persons
suffering from dry eyes experience a deficiency in tear
production, making it difficult to keep the surface of the eye
moist. The tear film is made up of three layers: - Outer:
(Oily/Lipid) layer. Prevents tears from evaporating too rapidly,
helping tears to remain on the eye. - Middle:(Aqueous) layer.
Cleanses the eyes and rids them of irritants. - Bottom: (Mucin)
layer. Aids in lubrication of the eye by spreading the aqueous
layer across the eye. What causes dry eyes? Dry eye can occur as
a result of a decrease in tear production or an imbalance in the
tear film. Changes in eyelid position, including entropion (in-
turning of the lids) and ectropion (out-turning of the lids),
can hinder the blinking motion necessary to keep the surface of
the eyes lubricated, resulting in dry eyes. Additionally, taking
medications, such as sleeping pills, antihistamines and
decongestants can mimic dry eyes. Enviro