Dry Eye Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief for Modern Eyes Dry eye disease is one of the most common eye concerns in modern life. It can affect office workers, students, contact lens wearers, travelers, and anyone who spends long hours in air-conditioned spaces or in front of digital screens. While it may seem minor, dry eye can interfere with reading, working, driving, and daily comfort if it is not properly managed. Dry eye happens when the eyes do not produce enough tears, or when tears evaporate too quickly. A healthy tear film protects the eye surface, keeps vision clear, and helps prevent irritation.
Several everyday factors can contribute to dry eye, including:
Common symptoms may include:
Prolonged screen time, which reduces blinking
Dry, gritty, or sandy feeling in the eyes
Watery eyes
Air-conditioned rooms, which can increase tear evaporation
Sensitivity to light
Poor screen position or glare
Burning, stinging, or itching
Indoor dust, allergens, and pollution
Contact lens use
Redness or eye fatigue
Meibomian gland dysfunction, when the small oil-producing glands inside the eyelids become blocked or inflamed
Blurred vision that comes and goes, especially after screen use
Simple habits can help reduce discomfort:
At Bumrungrad International Hospital, the Dry Eye Clinic provides evaluation and personalized care for people with ongoing dry eye symptoms. Treatment may include artificial tears, prescription medication, punctal plugs, intense pulsed light therapy, or eyelid hygiene treatment, also known as Eyelid Spa.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule by looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes
Blink regularly, especially while using screens
Adjust screen height and lighting to reduce eye strain
Eyelid Spa may include:
Drink enough water throughout the day
Warm compresses
Eyelid massage
Use a humidifier in very dry rooms
Careful eyelid cleaning to help open blocked glands, reduce inflammation, and improve tear film quality
Use artificial tears if recommended
With the right diagnosis, daily care, and specialist-guided treatment, dry eye disease can often be managed effectively, helping your eyes feel more comfortable and your vision stay clearer throughout the day.
6 Issue: August 2026
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