Got an idea for a holiday? Send it to us

Submit Now

National Mechanical Dry Eye Day – May 19, 2024

National Mechanical Dry Eye Day is observed each year on May 19 in the United States. This day is observed to raise awareness about this age-related disorder of the eye. It is one of the most prevalent age-related eye disorders and is commonly found in those over 60. The condition is identified by the presence of extra conjunctival folds, which are between the eyeball and the eyelids. The lower eyelid is typically affected by the condition. This disrupts the natural flow of tears and eye drops, weakening the tear film, delaying tear clearance, and causing dry eye.

History of National Mechanical Dry Eye Day

National Mechanical Dry Eye Day was founded by Bio-Tissue in 2020 to raise awareness about mechanical dry eye, one of the most disregarded and often misdiagnosed eye conditions. Mechanical dry eye is an age-related ophthalmology disorder that affects up to 98% of patients 60 years or older.

The organization behind National Mechanical Dry Eye Day, Bio-Tissue, Inc, deals with the clinical application of cryopreserved amniotic membrane-based products to treat eye diseases and disorders. The organization was established in 1997. It is also committed to fulfilling the unmet demand for better surgical and therapeutic alternatives for helping eye care professionals quickly identify eye disorders and their proper treatments. They are also pioneers in the treatment of rare eye disorders such as keratitis, recurrent corneal erosions, conjunctivochalasis, pterygium, and dry eye.

Mechanical dry eye symptoms can include dryness or redness, excessive tears from a blocked tear duct, sensitivity loss, or pain in the eye. Excessive tearing is one of the earliest symptoms of damage. Patients with mechanical dry eyes may find this to be a serious worry, and blinking provides no relief. The Tenon’s capsule, which is part of the lower eyelid, might deteriorate as a result of mechanical dry eye and stop the eye from retaining tears. This indicates that the patient is unable to control his or her crying. This can lead to dry, itchy irritation that is resistant to common treatments including artificial tears, anti-inflammatory medications, and punctal occlusion. Mechanical dry eye is often overlooked and underdiagnosed by ophthalmologists. National Mechanical Dry Eye Day hopes to help more people prepare for the disorder as they advance in age.

National Mechanical Dry Eye Day timeline

Early 19th Century
Ophthalmology as a Branch of Study

Georg Joseph Beer establishes the first university of the department of ophthalmology in Vienna.

1855
Glaucoma

Glaucoma and other diseases of the eyes are discovered.

20th Century
Golden Age of Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgeries became painless and quick.

1989
Lasik

Gholam Peyman invents the Lasik surgery.

National Mechanical Dry Eye Day FAQs

What is mechanical dry eye?

Mechanical dry eye is an age-related disorder, often found in individuals over 60 years of age. It is characterized by redundant folds of the conjunctiva that are typically detected between the eyeball and the eyelids.

What are the two types of dry eye?

There are two main subtypes of dry eye disease: aqueous deficiency and evaporative, which may co-exist.

Can you recover from dry eye?

Currently, there is no permanent cure for dry eye disease. However, a number of options can help maintain moisture in the eyes to reduce symptoms and protect vision.

How to Observe National Mechanical Dry Eye Day

  1. Get your eyes checked

    If you are 60 years or older, observe National Mechanical Dry Eye Day by getting your eyes checked. Early diagnosis of mechanical dry eyes can facilitate effective and speedy treatment.

  2. Spread the word

    Raise awareness about mechanical dry eyes by taking to your social media on National Mechanical Dry Eye Day. Post about the disorders and steps that senior citizens can take to detect and treat them.

  3. Speak to your ophthalmologist

    Want to know more about mechanical dry eyes and the preventative measures you may take at an early stage? Speak to your ophthalmologist on National Mechanical Dry Eye Day and find out the best ways to take care of your eyes.

5 Fascinating Facts About Eyes

  1. The eyes can multitask

    They can focus on 50 different objects at one time.

  2. It is a very complex organ

    The only organ more complex than the eye is the brain.

  3. Color differentiation

    We can differentiate up to 10 million colors, to be precise.

  4. There’s a phobia of eyes

    Ommatophobia is a fear of the eyes.

  5. Two different colored eyes

    Having two different eye colors is known as heterochromia.

Why National Mechanical Dry Eye Day is Important

  1. It gives us a chance to seek timely treatment

    National Mechanical Dry Eye Day is an important observation. It reminds us that age-related eye disorders such as mechanical dry eyes can be managed with proper care and treatment.

  2. It’s a common disorder

    More than 98% of the elderly population will be affected by mechanical dry eyes. National Mechanical Dry Eye Day is a reminder to take care of our eyes and seek treatment when necessary.

  3. It helps us prevent a misdiagnosis

    National Mechanical Dry Eye Day raises awareness of mechanical dry eyes. The increased awareness of the eye condition ensures that both doctors and eye technicians do not misdiagnose it.

National Mechanical Dry Eye Day dates

YearDateDay
2024May 19Sunday
2025May 19Monday
2026May 19Tuesday
2027May 19Wednesday
2028May 19Friday

Holidays Straight to Your Inbox

Every day is a holiday!
Receive fresh holidays directly to your inbox.