Dry, irritated eyes are increasingly common in Fiji, affecting individuals from various walks of life, including office workers glued to screens and farmers laboring under the intense sun. While often perceived as a trivial annoyance, dry eye disease can significantly impair vision, productivity, and overall quality of life if not addressed appropriately.
Dry eye disease arises when the eyes either do not produce sufficient tears or when tears evaporate too rapidly. This condition disrupts the tear film, which is essential for maintaining comfort, clarity, and protection against infections in the eyes. Given Fiji’s warm, windy climate and the prevalence of air conditioning, the natural tear film is vulnerable to disruption, leading to symptoms such as burning or stinging sensations, redness, a gritty feeling, blurred or fluctuating vision, sensitivity to light, and sometimes excessive watering.
The tear film consists of three layers: an oily layer, a watery layer, and a mucus layer, all of which work together to ensure the eye surface remains smooth and moist. Dry eye disease can develop when one or more of these layers are compromised, often resulting in tear film instability and inflammation of the eye’s surface. This cycle of irritation and breakdown can worsen the condition over time.
Dry eye disease is primarily categorized into two main types, with many patients exhibiting characteristics of both. Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye is common among older individuals and those with autoimmune diseases, where the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough tears. Meanwhile, Evaporative Dry Eye, which is the predominant form observed in Fiji, occurs when tears evaporate more quickly due to dysfunction in the meibomian glands of the eyelids that are responsible for producing oil to slow evaporation. Contributing factors such as dust, smoke, and extended screen time exacerbate this condition.
Several systemic and environmental factors prevalent in Fiji contribute to the increased risk of developing dry eyes. Conditions such as diabetes mellitus, autoimmune diseases, hormonal shifts, certain medications, and lifestyle habits, such as increased screen time and exposure to air-conditioned spaces, play a significant role. The island’s climate, characterized by heat, trade winds, and frequent dust, also poses additional risks.
Fortunately, dry eye disease is manageable with early diagnosis and tailored treatment options based on severity and underlying causes. For mild cases, lifestyle adjustments—such as taking regular breaks from screens, staying hydrated, and using sunglasses outdoors—can be beneficial. Artificial tears are commonly the first line of treatment, with preservative-free drops being recommended for frequent use.
In cases where inflammation is present, prescription eye drops with anti-inflammatory medications may be necessary under medical supervision. For those experiencing eyelid-related issues, warm compresses and proper lid hygiene are essential. Advanced management options, including punctal plugs to reduce tear drainage and specialized serum-based eye drops, may also be pursued through specialized care.
It’s vital that individuals experiencing persistent discomfort, redness, or blurred vision seek help early. Consulting an optometrist or ophthalmologist can not only avert further complications but also enhance long-term eye health. As awareness about dry eye disease continues to grow in Fiji, more individuals can look forward to effective management and improved quality of life.