Certified Paraoptometric Practice Test

What is one common cause of dry eye syndrome?

1. Excessive exposure to bright lights

2. Contact lens wear

3. Regular use of eye drops

4. Age-related macular degeneration

The correct answer is: Contact lens wear

Dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, can be caused by a variety of factors that disrupt the normal eye surface and tear film. One significant contributor to this condition is the wear of contact lenses. Contact lenses can cause dryness for several reasons: they may reduce the natural tear film's ability to adequately hydrate the eye, leading to discomfort and irritation. Furthermore, some contact lenses might absorb moisture from the eye, while others could be less permeable to oxygen, which can exacerbate dryness and irritation. Unlike the other options, contact lens wear is a direct factor that can affect tear film stability and ocular surface health, making it a prevalent cause of dry eye syndrome. Other factors, like excessive exposure to bright lights or eye drops, do not have the same consistent and direct effects on tear production and eye hydration. Age-related macular degeneration is primarily a visual impairment condition and not directly linked to dryness of the eyes. Understanding the mechanics behind contact lens use is crucial for identifying and managing dry eye syndrome effectively.