What Causes Dry Eyes?
What causes Dry Eyes?
A number of factors contribute to dry eyes, this can include:
- Age: As we age, the flow and production of tears reduces. This coupled with changes in the composition of our tears can increase our risk and contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Gender: Our hormones can play a part in affecting our eyes and it has been found that females tend to be at high risk of developing dry eyes.
- Environment: Studies have found that environments of low humidity (ie. air conditioning & air travel) and high wind velocity (ie. windy days) can contribute to dry eyes.
- Medications: Some medications can include side effects that can cause dry eyes. For example: antihistamines, beta blockers & diuretics. Treatment for eye conditions using long term eye drops can also contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Screen Use: Computer/tablet/phones/laptops are now a part of daily life, however, it has been demonstrated clinically that when we use our screens we blink less and this can contribute to dry eye.
- Ocular Conditions: Other eye conditions like blepharitis can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Systemic Conditions: Certain systemic conditions can cause dry eyes. For example: diabetics may be more prone to developing dry eyes.
- Contact Lens Use: Chronic contact lens use can reduce the stability of the tear layer which can cause dry eyes.
- Refractive Surgery: Refractive surgery can exacerbate pre-existing dry eyes or trigger borderline dry eye patients. It is important that prior to refractive surgery your dry eyes in managed so as to reduce post operative symptoms.
