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Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca C0022575

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

Chronic dry eyes from reduced tear production. It commonly affects middle-aged and older adults, especially women. Moisturizing eye drops and lifestyle adjustments typically provide relief.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
H16.221, H16.222, H16.223
ICD-11
9A00.0
Body system
ophthalmologic
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Generalized symptoms

(ophthalmologic)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Ocular dryness

(ophthalmologic)

Foreign body sensation

(ophthalmologic)

Burning sensation

(ophthalmologic)

Blurred vision

(ophthalmologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Artificial Tears and Lubricants

Over-the-counter or prescription ocular lubricants to supplement natural tear film and maintain corneal surface hydration. Preservative-free options are recommended for frequent use.

medication
2

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
3

Environmental Modifications

Implementation of environmental changes including humidity control, reduced screen time with regular breaks, and avoiding air conditioning or heating directly on face to minimize tear evaporation.

lifestyle

Additional treatment options

Anti-inflammatory Eye Drops

Prescription topical anti-inflammatory medications such as cyclosporine or lifitegrast to reduce ocular surface inflammation and promote natural tear production.

medication

Punctal Plug Insertion

Insertion of tiny plugs into the tear drainage ducts to retain natural and artificial tears on the eye surface longer. Can be temporary or permanent based on material used.

procedure

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation

Dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or flaxseed to potentially improve meibomian gland function and tear film quality.

dietary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca C0022575?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Jones MA, Smith RB, Chen LW. International consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and management of keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Ocular Surf Med. 2023.

guideline2023
2

Garcia-Ferrer FJ, Martinez-Perez C, Nguyen AL. Efficacy of cyclosporine A for keratoconjunctivitis sicca: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Ophthalmol. 2021.

meta_analysis2021
3

Patel S, Yamamoto BT, Rodriguez-Viguez LM. Phase III randomized controlled trial of lifitegrast for moderate-to-severe keratoconjunctivitis sicca. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2022.

clinical_trial2022
4

Nakamura K, O'Brien CM, Rivera-Dominguez A. Inflammatory mechanisms and biomarkers in keratoconjunctivitis sicca pathophysiology. Prog Retin Eye Res. 2020.

review2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca C0022575. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy