Dry Eye Treatment Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a disease of the tears and ocular surface that results in symptoms of discomfort, visual disturbance, and tear film instability with potential damage to the cornea. Many people mistake dry eye symptoms for allergies, climatic conditions or just eyestrain. While all of these may aggravate dry eye symptoms, they are not the cause. Common causes of dry eyes are medications, contact lens wear, disease, hormonal changes, and a low blink rate. The symptoms of dry eye can be frustrating, painful, and affect your daily life in many ways. They include: Red, burning, or itchy eyes Eye fatigue or headaches Producing more tears than normal at times Blurring vision or light sensitivity