ChronicDryEye.net Hall of Fame: Get to Know Our Most Active Community Members

Here at ChronicDryEye.net, we want to spotlight some of our most active community members. These community members have thoughtfully shared their experiences with dry eye and helped foster conversation with others. We wouldn't be where we are without them – and all of you – as we continue to provide a place of support for people with chronic dry eye.

Learn more about who these community members are, and see how your experiences compare.

Hitesh Goenka

Located in Kolkata in India
When were you diagnosed with chronic dry eye?
I have had chronic dry eyes for about three decades. I am 33 years old. It's always been there like my eyes. Diagnosis by an ophthalmologist happened in my teens when I was asked to use a lubricant whenever there was irritation.
What’s the most difficult symptom for you?
Vision disturbances make it difficult to see properly. It affects all kinds of activity. Reading and driving a car are the most affected activities since they require more focus.
What’s one thing you do to help manage dry eye?
I use eye drops every hour or so. If I don't use it within a two-hour interval, I begin to feel irritation in my eyes. The itching and the burning sensation eat me up. Such a massive distraction it is.
What’s one thing you wish others knew about dry eye?
Chronic dry eye is not just dryness in the eyes. It's so much more. It can limit a person's ability to function in all kinds of situations.

Pedro Augusto

Located in São Paulo, Brazil
When were you diagnosed with chronic dry eye?
At least 8 months ago.
What’s the most difficult symptom for you?
Dryness while using screens (when working, studying, etc).
What’s one thing you do to help manage dry eye?
I use Restasis two times a day.
What’s one thing you wish others knew about dry eye?
It impacts your life much more than people would think.