The cause of a reduced production of lachrymal fluid can be a chronic inflammation, poorly functioning eyelids or tear glands, or medicinal side effects.
If the condition has lasted for more than three months and if there is also dryness of the mouth, it might be a case of Sjogren's syndrome which is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own tear- and salivary glands, and in women also the glands that lubricate the vagina - resulting in dryness.
Sjogren's syndrome can also be seen together with other autoimmune diseases which attack the body's own tissues, such as articular rheumatism. Most of these diseases are also called connective tissue diseases.
Sjogren's disease mostly attacks middle-aged women and there is a hereditary disposition (according to specific types of tissue). Almost 1/3 of these women also suffer from articular rheumatism. With articular rheumatism as the most frequently occuring connective tissue suffering, Sjogren's syndrome is in 2nd place. Besides the tear- and salivary glands, almost all organs of the body can be affected.
40% have kidney problems, but they are rarely severe. 1/4 have periodically inflammatory-like changes in their blood vessels with bruises and sore blood vessels in the legs. Neuritis and thyroid gland changes with a reduced production of metabolic hormones plus lymphatic problems can also occur.
Cyber eyes – CVS
People who spend hours each day in front of computers risk developing “cyber eyes”. They are irritated, dry eyes, which can sting or feel like they are full of sand. It can also lead requiring greater concentration for seeing sharply.
In an era where all anomalies are quickly named, this condition has of course been named. The symptoms are a part of a larger complex called CVS (Computer Vision Syndrome).
CVS has many causes including: inadequate lighting, screen reflection, poor office environment, low indoor humidity, and possibly pollution. The condition may also arise if using contact lenses or glasses of the wrong strength.
A study has shown that almost 90% of those who work with computers more than three hours daily experience eye problems to some degree.
When you sit in front of a computer screen you automatically blink less, which causes the eyes to dry out.
