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Under normal circumstances, the healthy eye is covered with a thin layer of tears which covers the cornea and protects and lubricates the eye. In dry eye syndrome, there is decreased production of tears from the tear glands destabilize the protective tear cover and create dry spots on the eye. The result is discomfort, irritation, and diminished vision.
A few symptoms of dry eye syndrome may include: the feeling of "something in your eye; a stinging, scratchy sensation; blurred vision; mucus around the eye; and increased irritation from foreign substances.
It is not unusual to experience dry eyes for a short period of time following laser eye surgery. The important issue is more one of the length of time and the severity of the condition. For most, dry eyes are not of significant severity to cause difficulty and usually resolve within the prescribed surgical healing period. For others, it can become a long term complication and must be dealt with more aggressively.
There are a number of techniques to manage dry eye syndrome, among them artificial tears, punctual plugs, omega-3 supplements, and a cyclosporine medication. The choice of which is best for your specific situation will be up to your eye doctor.
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