Dry Eye Syndrome: The Undiagnosed Affliction Affecting Millions

The symptoms are common: burning, sandy-gritty irritation or dryness. Although millions suffer from the disease, many don't even know that they even have it. In fact, scientists estimate that 20 to 30 million people in the U.S. have some form of Dry Eye Syndrome. An additional nine to ten million people have moderate or severe symptoms of dry eyes.

Dry eyes can result from aging long-term contact lens wear, LASIK surgery, diabetes, arthritis, or a dietary deficiency of omega-3s. Symptoms increase from protracted computer use and from the dry air circulated by indoor heating and air-conditioning. The syndrome is caused by a decrease in tear production or increase in tear evaporation that makes the tears too "salty."

If left untreated, you may develop more serious problems like scarring, ulcers, or an infection of the cornea. The problem is that people don't realize the seriousness of the condition and do little for treatment.

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