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Eye condition
Dry eyes (dry eye disease)
In dry eye the tear film is disturbed: either tears are lacking, or they evaporate too quickly. The ocular surface becomes irritated.
Schematic illustration for explanation – medical approval required.
Typical symptoms
- Burning, itching or a foreign body sensation
- Tired eyes, especially at the screen
- Paradoxically: intermittently watering eyes
Dry eyes are troublesome, but usually very treatable – what matters is finding the cause instead of just switching drops.
How we examine
Assessment of the tear film, lid margins and ocular surface at the slit lamp.
How we treat
Stepped therapy consisting of suitable tear substitutes, lid margin care and – if necessary – anti-inflammatory medication.
To the matching treatment →When you should act quickly
Severe pain, sensitivity to light or deteriorating vision do not fit simple dry eye – please have this assessed.
More on eye emergencies →Editorial team: Augencentrum Mülheim · Last updated 07/2026