Dry Eye Syndrome
Global Impact, Global Goals
"Dry eye" is a term often used in the general public to describe a group of different diseases and conditions that result from inadequate wetting and lubrication of the eye. Although millions of people experience it around the globe, dry eye is not always easy to diagnose – it can easily be mistaken for other conditions such as infections or allergies. While many factors contribute to dry eye syndrome, those of global concern include environmental issues and aging – both are prominent issues that continue to grow throughout the world.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Inadequate wetting and lubrication of the eye can be caused by many different conditions. Decreased tear production due to aging, environment, blinking problems – even oral medications such as antihistamines – can cause a reduction in the eye's natural ability to produce tears. Tears are the body's natural mechanism for protecting the surface of the eye from infection and from the corrosive effects of dirt, dust, and other airborne particles. They help to create a smooth corneal surface so vision stays clear and undistorted, and your eyes stay comfortable. Tears provide a wet, lubricated surface that layers over the corneal epithelium. Needing to be constantly replenished, tears help to maintain the health, comfort, and infection-fighting capabilities of the eye.
The Alcon Difference
There is no cure for dry eye syndrome, but its symptoms can be treated by replacing, enhancing or retaining one's own natural tears. Artificial tears and the suppression of tear loss through the use of punctal plugs are examples of available treatments for dry eye syndrome. Alcon offers a number of these products, including Systane® Lubricant Eye Drops and a comprehensive line of tears products. Alcon developed the first artificial tear clinically proven to reduce both signs and symptoms of dry eye, Systane®. Alcon's line of dry eye products also includes, Tears Naturale® – a line of products that allow patients to replace, enhance or retain their own natural tears. Depending on the severity of their dry eye symptoms, Alcon offers the ideal product, including Tears Naturale® II POLYQUAD® Lubricant Eye Drops, Bion® Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, Tears Naturale® P.M. and Tears Naturale® Punctal Plugs.
