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Ocular surface disease (OSD) is a term for disorders that affect the exposed layers of the eye, including the tear film, cornea, and conjunctiva. These conditions disrupt the eye's moisture, lubrication, and protective mechanisms. OSD often results in dry, painful, or irritated eyes.
read more about ocular surface disease ...Ocular Surface Disease includes several related conditions that share symptoms of discomfort and inflammation.
Ocular Surface Disease develops when the delicate balance of the tear film is broken. The most frequent causes include hormonal changes, environmental factors like wind or low humidity, and the use of certain systemic medications. Damage to the glands that produce tears or oil also contributes.
Symptoms include a gritty feeling, burning, redness, excessive tearing, and blurred vision that fluctuates. The chronic inflammation can damage the corneal surface, reducing visual clarity and increasing the risk of infection.
Treatment focuses on restoring the tear film and reducing inflammation. This includes using artificial tears, prescription anti-inflammatory drops, and warm compresses for eyelid hygiene. Addressing environmental factors or underlying systemic conditions is also needed.
In many cases, it is managed long-term, not cured, by controlling environmental and systemic factors.
Contact lens wear can worsen or contribute to dry eye if the lenses are not fitted or cared for properly.
No, but persistent redness, burning, and grittiness often signal OSD.
If you have persistent eye irritation, blurred vision that improves with blinking, or light sensitivity, see a dry eye specialist. Untreated ocular surface disease can lead to corneal scarring or chronic inflammation that permanently affects your comfort and vision.
TFOS. DEWS II Management and Therapy (tfosdewsnext.org). 2023.
AAO. What is Ocular Surface Disease? (aao.org). 2024.
Review of Optometry. Managing OSD (reviewofoptometry.com). 2024.
National Eye Institute. Dry Eye (nei.nih.gov). 2024.