Dry eye syndrome is a prevalent disease that affects visual acuity,
activities of daily living, and quality of life. A number of contributory factors affect the severity of
dry eye syndrome, including
autoimmune disease, environmental surroundings,
contact lens use, hormonal changes, anatomical features, chronic
inflammation,
infections, and iatrogenic factors, such as medications or surgery. Symptoms may include intermittent or constant blurry vision, discomfort, burning,
foreign body sensation,
hyperemia, dryness, and
photophobia. The severity of
dry eye syndrome can range from very mild disease to extremely severe cases with vision-threatening consequences. A variety of
dry eye treatment modalities exist to address the different causes, symptoms, and consequences of ocular surface disease, including
artificial tears, lubricating
gels, ophthalmic inserts, anti-inflammatory drops, and
surgical procedures. In this paper, an assortment of literature pertaining to the treatment of
dry eye syndrome, in particular
hydroxypropyl cellulose ophthalmic inserts, is reviewed. These inserts can be used effectively as monotherapy, or in conjunction with other
therapies, and should be considered in the treatment of
dry eye syndrome.