15 Reasons You Might Have Dry Eyes
Dry eye is a problem that causes you to feel a burning, stinging or grittiness in your eyes. The condition can either be chronic or temporary and occurs when your eyes don’t naturally produce enough tears to keep them moistened. There are 15 conditions reasons you might have dry eyes that you should know.
Aging
People of any age can have dry eyes, but as you get older, it becomes more common. Dry eye affects individuals over age 50 more than anyone else. Using artificial tears can help to relieve the problem as you add extra lubrication to alleviate your symptoms.
Medications
Certain medications can cause dry eyes. Antihistamines, antidepressants, beta-blockers and diuretics can also cause the condition. If you take any of those drugs, you should speak with your doctor to get medication or artificial tears to combat their effects.
Computer Usage
Staring at a computer screen for many hours during the day can cause dry eyes. Your eyes have to strain and you may not blink as often as you should, which leads to the problem. If you blink more and take breaks, it can prevent dry eyes.
Laser Surgery
Sometimes, laser surgery to correct your vision can lead to dry eyes. This happens when nerves are affected and the eyes are unable to produce as many tears. In some cases, it’s temporary. You can use eye drops while your eyes heal to keep them moistened.
Menopause
Women going through menopause may experience dry eye due to their changing hormones. However, women can also have dry eyes during pregnancy or using birth control pills. Lubricating eye drops can help.
Vitamin A Deficiency
A vitamin A deficiency can lead to dry eyes. Eating foods rich in vitamin A, including broccoli, spinach, carrots, eggs, fish, and pepper, can improve your eyes. Your doctor can give you a blood test to determine if you’re deficient. You may also be able to use eye drops that contain vitamin A.
Wind Exposure
If you live in a cold area where there are high winds, your eyes can be chronically dry. Use eye drops to lubricate your eyes and wear sunglasses that wrap around your head.
Sjogren’s Syndrome
Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune condition, can cause dry eyes and reduce your eyes’ ability to produce tears. Your doctor can prescribe steroid eye drops and lubricating drops to help. In some cases, surgery might be needed to promote tear production.
Other Autoimmune Conditions
Many other autoimmune conditions, including lupus, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause dry eye. You may be able to get treatment such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to help. If you have diabetes, taking your medication, consuming a healthy diet, and properly managing your blood sugar can also help.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis occurs when the oil glands in your inner eyelid become clogged. You can ease inflammation of your eyes by using a warm compress and regularly cleaning your eyelids with a mild shampoo. You may need artificial tears until the inflammation subsides. Your doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic.
Allergies
Chronic allergies can cause dry eyes, especially if you use antihistamines. You can use lubricating eye drops to relieve your eyes and keep them moist.
Mild Dehydration
You may have dry eyes simply from being dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help.
Low Humidity
If the humidity is very low and the air is dry, your eyes can also be dry. Use a humidifier and ensure that air can’t blow directly on your eyes when you’re sleeping or sitting.
Smoke
Smoking and secondhand smoke exposure can cause dry eye. If you smoke, quitting can help.
Contact Lenses
Wearing contact lenses can also cause dry eye. If you use them long-term, you may have a chronic problem. Regularly use rewetting solution while wearing lenses. You can soothe your eyes by switching to glasses. There are even special contacts made for dry eyes. Speak with your doctor about them.
If you live in Massachusetts and want treatment for dry eye, contact Boston Vision for a consultation today.
