Conjunctival Stones: A Growing Concern for Dry Eye Syndrome Patients

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A woman in her 20s, Ms. Park, recently shared her experience of having to visit the hospital due to conjunctival stones. She had undergone LASIK surgery in college, which worsened her dry eye condition. However, she was unaware that stones could form in her eyes. After a painful experience, she had the stones removed under anesthesia.

According to the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service, the number of patients with dry eye syndrome in Korea reached 2.5 million as of last year. This number is expected to increase, highlighting the need for caution in managing eyes during the changing seasons.

What are Conjunctival Stones?

The conjunctiva is a transparent mucous membrane covering the eyelids and eyeballs. It secretes mucus to help tears stay on the surface of the eyeball and protects the eyeball. Conjunctival stones are calcium substances in the conjunctiva that harden like stones as the conjunctival epithelial cells and protein secretions degenerate.

These stones often occur in patients who have suffered from severe conjunctivitis or suffer from dry eye syndrome due to frequent eye makeup, contact lenses, LASIK or LASEK surgery. If the stones are small, they may not cause symptoms. However, if they penetrate the conjunctiva or protrude, they can cause a wound on the cornea and must be removed with a medical needle.

The Link Between Dry Eye Syndrome and Conjunctival Stones

The medical community explains that the increasing number of patients with dry eye syndrome has led to a rise in the number of people visiting hospitals with conjunctival stones. Factors such as prolonged use of electronic devices and the increase in LASIK and LASEK surgeries have contributed to the growth of dry eye syndrome patients.

Office workers, in particular, are at risk due to decreased blinking while using computers for extended periods. Blinking helps spread tears over the entire eyeball and cleans the surface of the eyeball. If this antibacterial process is omitted, stones are formed.

Prevention and Management of Conjunctival Stones

To prevent conjunctival stones, it is essential to keep the eyes moist with artificial tears. Applying a warm compress before bed helps relieve inflammation and soothe the eyes. This works by opening the clogged oil glands in the eyelids, allowing waste products to be discharged without hardening.

Additionally, thorough removal of eye makeup and avoiding prolonged wear of contact lenses are crucial. It is also important not to sleep with contact lenses in.

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Expert Advice

Kim Jeong-hoon, a professor of ophthalmology at Gil Hospital at Gachon University, emphasizes the importance of prompt treatment for conjunctival stones. He advises against self-removal, as it can lead to infection and scarring. Instead, removal with a medical needle at the hospital can minimize scarring.

Professor Kim also stresses that if left untreated, conjunctival stones can lead to a vicious cycle that worsens dry eye. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms persist.