Dry Eye Causes

Dry eye syndrome can be caused by a number of different things. Tears are essential to keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable, and when tear production decreases for any reason you have an increased risk of developing dry eye syndrome.

The balance of tears and drainage in the eye can be interrupted by a variety of causes, many of which are listed below. At Cornea Consultants of Albany, we are happy to solve all of these potential issues and eliminate the discomfort you feel from dry eye.

• One of the primary causes of dry eye is age. Simply due to the natural aging process, it is typical for people over the age of 65 to experience many of the symptoms of dye eyes.
• Gender can also be a factor. Because of hormonal changes involved with pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and menopause, women are more likely to suffer from dry eyes.
• Medicines like antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications and antidepressants can all inhibit tear production in the eyes and cause dry eye.
• Along with medications, certain medical conditions can increase the likelihood that you will experience the symptoms of dry eye. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or thyroid problems, you are more at risk of dry eye.
• Inflammation of the eyelids and the surfaces of the eye can also increase the risks of getting dry eye, as well as the inward or outward turning of your eyelids.
• Many environmental conditions can also lead to the development of dry eye. Exposure to smoke, wind, and any dry climates can evaporate your tears, drying out your tears.
• We live surrounded by screens. Failing to blink often, especially when staring at a computer screen or watching TV, can also dry out your eyes. Oftentimes, treatment for other eye conditions can unfortunately lead to dry eye. The long-term use of contact lenses and receiving refractive eye surgeries like LASIK can limit tear production.

If you believe that any of these causes could be contributing to discomfort in your eyes, call our office to schedule your appointment and find relief from dry eye.