Xeropthalmia also called Dry Eyes

An oration on xeros and opthalmos

‘Xeropthalmia is nothing but a condition wherein a human eye is unable to produce tears. In ancient Greek “Xeros” meant “dry” and “opthalmos” meant “eyes” exclaimed Ken, a British lecturer who was addressing a room full of enthusiastic students studying ophthalmology in medical school somewhere in Merseyside.

As he moved onto the next slide, he heard some whispering among his students. He turned around and asked one of the students what was the matter of interest. Walden, a young male in his late teens eloquently dressed said ‘we were wondering what dry eye means? ’
The lecturer took a moment, grabbed his chair, and sat down folding his legs and leaning behind. He asked the student ‘why do you ask about dry eye?’ Walden was reluctant at first but when he saw how unperturbed his lecturer was, he decided to carry on anyway.

‘Mike’s dad has been fussing about a scratchy and sometimes burning sensation in his eye. He gave up driving after sunset because he finds it hard to drive. He says, ‘My eyes have become very sensitive to light. Are these symptoms of dry eyes?’

The lecturer nodded and replied ‘Yes, these are all symptoms of dry eyes. Mike’s dad must seek medical advice if he has been experiencing these signs and symptoms for a prolonged time.

He went on to explain the causes of dry eyes ‘Dry eyes are caused by a variety of reasons that disrupt the healthy tear film. Your tear film has three layers: fatty oils, aqueous fluid, and mucus. This combination normally keeps the surface of your eyes lubricated, smooth, and clear. Problems with any of these layers can cause dry eyes.’

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