Dry Eyes: Causes, Effective Treatments, and Prevention Tips

Dry eyes develop when your eyes fail to produce sufficient tears or when the tears produced are unable to maintain adequate moisture. Tears are essential for keeping the eye surface smooth, clearing away irritants, and protecting against infections.

Experiencing dry eyes can cause discomfort such as burning or stinging sensations. This condition may be persistent or triggered by specific activities like prolonged computer use or exposure to windy conditions. Generally, both eyes are affected simultaneously.

Dry eye symptoms are common and usually not severe, often manageable with simple, accessible treatments.

What Leads to Dry Eyes?

Various factors contribute to dry eyes. Below are some prevalent causes explained.

Insufficient Tear Production

The most frequent reason for dry eyes is reduced tear production, medically known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or dry eye syndrome.

Factors that may reduce tear production include:

• Aging, particularly in women after menopause, which significantly increases dry eye risk.
• Vitamin A deficiency, although rare in modern settings.
• Health conditions like diabetes, lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, infections, or thyroid disorders.
• Damage to tear glands from trauma, inflammation, chemical exposure, heat, or radiation.
• Laser eye surgeries such as LASIK, which can temporarily reduce tear production.

Poor Tear Quality

Tears consist of water, oils, and mucus. An imbalance, especially clogged meibomian glands that produce the oily layer, can cause tears to evaporate too quickly, leading to dry eyes.

This condition is often referred to as having "low-quality tears."

Medication Side Effects

Certain medications can contribute to dry eye symptoms, including:

• Blood pressure treatments
• Decongestants
• Antihistamines
• Antidepressants
• Birth control pills
• Hormone replacement therapies
• Some acne medications

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Environmental elements and daily habits can also provoke dry eyes, such as:

• Exposure to wind
• Dry indoor air
• Smoke exposure
• Extended screen time
• Driving
• Reading
• Cycling outdoors
• Air travel

Additional Contributors

Other factors include:

• Incomplete blinking
• Eyelid inflammation (blepharitis)
• Eyelid malpositions like turning inward or outward
• Prolonged contact lens use

When to Seek Medical Advice for Dry Eyes

If your eyes remain red, itchy, or irritated for an extended period, or if you notice sudden vision changes or eye pain, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

An eye specialist, such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist, can perform comprehensive evaluations, including measuring tear quantity and evaporation rate, to diagnose the condition accurately.

Modern Treatments for Dry Eyes

The goal of treatment is to restore tear balance and relieve symptoms, often starting with over-the-counter options.

Artificial Tears and Eye Drops

Artificial tears are the frontline treatment—affordable, effective, and easy to use. These drops may contain electrolytes like potassium and bicarbonate to support eye surface healing or thickening agents to prolong moisture retention.

There are preservative-containing and preservative-free options. Preservative-free drops, available in single-use vials, are gentler for sensitive eyes but may cost more. Finding the right product might require trying different brands.

Popular brands include:

• Lumify
• Refresh
• Alcon
• Visine
• Systane
• Allergan
• TheraTears
• Clear Eyes

Additionally, lubricating ointments and warm compresses can provide relief.

Professional Medical Treatments

If necessary, your doctor may prescribe medications such as cyclosporine eye drops (Restasis) or corticosteroids. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements or dietary sources like tuna may also reduce symptoms—consult your doctor for appropriate dosage.

In some cases, minor procedures like inserting lacrimal plugs can block tear drainage, helping retain moisture. These are painless, non-permanent, and typically unnoticeable.

Potential Risks of Untreated Dry Eyes

Without treatment, dry eyes can cause pain, infections, corneal ulcers, or scarring, potentially leading to vision loss, though permanent blindness is uncommon. Dry eyes can also impact daily activities and overall quality of life.

Preventing Dry Eyes in Today's World

While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce risk by:

• Remembering to blink regularly during screen time or reading
• Using humidifiers to maintain indoor moisture levels
• Shielding eyes from direct airflow from fans or air conditioners
• Wearing sunglasses outdoors
• Avoiding tobacco smoke exposure

Following treatment advice and using lubricants can also help prevent complications and maintain eye comfort.

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