The normal aging of tear glands, as well as specific diseases and disorders, may cause changes in the amount and condition of tears produced. Excessive evaporation of tears can also cause dry eye syndrome. Patients with thyroid disease may also experience dry eye syndrome caused by excessive evaporation. Sj gren's syndrome is an immune system disorder which is characterized by inflammation and dryness of the mouth, eyes, and other mucous membranes. Tear production may be limitied as the the lacrimal gland is affected.
Hormonal changes can also affect secretions from the tear glands.
Moisture Chambers Tarsorrahaphy oral pilocarpine Punctal Occlusion Punctum and intracanalicular occlusion are appropriate for certain patients with aqueous abnormalities, and it is important that a correct diagnosis is made to allow selection of suitable patients for the procedure. This allows them to be useful for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. In other words, they may be used to predict the likeliood of benefit. However they can be removed if necessary.