What are common symptoms of dry eye syndrome?

The symptoms of dry eye syndrome are characterized primarily by sensations of discomfort in the eyes, which include redness, burning, and a gritty feeling. This condition occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inflammation and damage to the surface of the eye. The discomfort is often described as a sensation of dryness or irritation and can be accompanied by a fluctuating vision due to tear film instability.

Blurred vision and sensitivity to light can occur but are not as definitive or primary symptoms of dry eye syndrome as the feelings of discomfort and grittiness are. Excessive tearing and discharge are generally associated more with other eye conditions rather than dry eyes, as tear production may be abnormal in either too few tears or reflex tearing from irritation. Additionally, the symptom of nighttime discomfort alone is not representative of dry eye syndrome, as it affects the eyes throughout the day rather than being limited to a particular time. Thus, the identification of burning, discomfort, and grittiness specifically highlights the hallmark manifestations of dry eye syndrome.