What Causes Dry Eye?

Have you been diagnosed with a case of dry eye? While people can get dry eye at any age, it tends to occur quite frequently as people grow older. In fact, most people aged 65 and up will experience dry eye symptoms.

About Dry Eye

As indicated by its name, dry eye is a condition where the body no longer produces enough tears to keep the eyes properly moistened. The first signs of dry eye may be a scratchy sensation or a new sensitivity to bright lights. Patients with dry eye often feel discomfort just from the sensation of air blowing on their eyes when outside.

Causes of Dry Eye

There is no single cause of dry eye. Typical causes of dry eye include:

• Diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and thyroid issues
• Side effects from prescription or over-the-counter medications
• Advanced age, as dry eye is a natural part of growing older for most people
• Women are more prone to dry eye than men, because of changes in hormones during pregnancy and menopause causing the eyes to dry out

Treatment for Dry Eye

Depending on the severity of your dry eye, the optometrist may suggest using OTC eye drops or prescription eye drops that will reduce inflammation in the eyelids and corneas.  When eye drops don’t bring relief, you may be a candidate for Lacrisert eye inserts, which will give your eyes the necessary lubrication.

Make an Appointment for Dry Eye Treatment

Now that you have a better understanding of what causes dry eye, there’s no need for you to delay any further in getting treatment. To learn more about dry eye or to set an appointment contact us.