Understanding Symptoms and Quality of Life in Patients With Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye disease (DED) is one of the most common reasons for patients (particularly those over the age of 50) to seek ophthalmic care. There is a wide array of causes for DED that can induce an alteration of the ocular surface system and determine the chronicity of the disease, including low blink rates (eg, computer use), systemic and topical drugs, autoimmune diseases, contact lens wear, and cataract and refractive surgery. Patients with dry eye experience numerous symptoms that can reduce their productivity and overall quality of life. This article presents the results of a roundtable focused on patients' symptoms. The goal was to better understand the symptoms reported by patients, the possible effects on visual function, the consequences on the quality of life, and the methodologies that can be used to measure and monitor symptoms in clinical practice and in clinical studies. The discrepancies between clinical signs and symptoms reported in some cases are considered in the context of the ocular surface system.