Dry eye occurs when there is insufficient lubrication in the eye, and the conjunctiva becomes much less moist than normal. This causes pain and discomfort in the eyes. It may occur as a result of the following:

• Any condition that causes corneal scarring, such as erythema multiforme, trachoma, or corneal burns
• Sjogren's syndrome
• Lagophthalmos
• Riley-Day syndrome
• Absence of lacrimal gland
• Paralysis of the facial or trigeminal nerves
• Medication with atropine
• Deep anesthesia
• Debilitating diseases

There are...