Keeping Your Tears Balanced
Different diseases and conditions can cause dry eye syndrome. But dry eye generally happens when these underlying issues cause an imbalance in one of the 3 layers of the tear film.
Lipid Layer
This is the outermost layer, which consists mainly of oils produced by your meibomian glands. Its function is to prevent the water in your eyes from evaporating. If there’s not enough oil production, or if there’s a different problem with your meibomian glands, your tears will evaporate too quickly and cause dry eyes.
Aqueous Layer
This middle layer of your tear film is responsible for keeping your eyes hydrated and well-nourished. It is sustained by your lacrimal glands. If these glands aren’t bathing your eyes in enough fluid and nutrients, you will likely develop dry eye syndrome.
Mucus Layer
The deepest layer of your tear film, this layer sits firmly on the surface of your eyes. Its job is to bond your tears to your eyes’ exterior and keep them functioning in the right place.
