Dry Eyes is a chronic eye condition in which a person either does not make enough tears or the tears you do make are not healthy to the ocular surface.
Tears are necessary for maintaining eye health and for providing clear vision. Dry eyes can develop for many reasons, including:
- AGE: Dry eyes are a part of the natural aging process. However, we are seeing dry eyes more than ever in younger patients due to increased screen time and exposure to blue light.
- GENDER: Women are more likely to develop dry eyes due to hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives and menopause.
- MEDICATION: Certain medicines, including antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
- MEDICAL CONDITIONS: People with rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid problems are more likely to have symptoms of dry eyes. Also, problems with inflammation of the eyelids like blepharitis – inflammation of the surfaces of the eye, or the inward or outward turning of eyelids can cause dry eyes to develop.
- ENVIORNMENTAL CONDITIONS: Exposure to smoke, wind and dry climates can increase tear evaporation resulting in dry eye symptoms. Failure to blink regularly, such as when staring at a computer screen for long periods of time, can also contribute to drying of the eyes.
- OTHER FACTORS: Long-term use of contact lenses can be a factor in the development of dry eyes. Refractive eye surgeries: such as LASIK, can decrease tear production and contribute to dry eyes.
There are many types of tears on the market to help ease the symptoms of dry eyes. Not every tear works for everyone, and some have preservatives that are not best for dry eyes! Therefore, our doctors have researched the best quality of tears and other products to manage dry eye symptoms.
To learn more about our Advanced Dry Eye Clinic – please click here
Contact our dry eye clinic coordinator today to get an evaluation.