Quick Answer: Dry eye syndrome is a common condition in which the eyes do not make enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly or are of poor quality, leaving the eye surface uncomfortable and sometimes inflamed.

What are the symptoms?

• Burning, stinging or a gritty, “sand in the eye” feeling
• Redness and tired eyes
• Watering, because irritation triggers reflex tears
• Blurred vision that clears with blinking

What causes it?

Long hours on screens, dry or air-conditioned rooms, polluted air, contact lens wear, ageing, hormonal changes, some medicines and eyelid-gland problems can all contribute. It can also follow laser vision correction for a period.

How is it managed?

Management ranges from lubricating drops, regular blinking and screen breaks to treating eyelid inflammation and other measures advised after examination. See our dry eye page, and our guides on chronic dry eye and air quality and your eyes.