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ABOUT DRY EYE

What is Dry Eye?

Dry Eye is very common and affects millions of people around the world.

It is a condition where your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the right kind of tears to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.

This can lead to symptoms like dryness, itchiness, irritation, soreness, and a gritty feeling in your eyes. Several factors can cause Dry Eye, including issues with the tear film, inflammation, and problems with the nerves in your eyes. Two main types of Dry Eye:

 

  • Aqueous Deficiency Dry Eye

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  • Evaporative Dry Eye

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Aqueous Deficiency Dry Eye

Insufficient tear production. Usually associated with Aging, Systemic Disease, Autoimmune, Medicines, Nerve Denervation.

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Evaporative Dry Eye

More common than Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye. This is where there aren’t enough protective oils in the outer tear film which can lead to excessive evaporation.  Common causes include Lifestyle, Environmental Stress, Lid Hygiene.

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Aging

As we age, tear production tends to decrease, which can lead to Dry Eye*.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menopause, can affect tear production.**

Medical Conditions

Certain conditions like Sjogren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes can reduce tear production**.

Medications

Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants.**

Environmental Factors

Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air can increase tear evaporation.*

Screen Time

Prolonged use of screens can reduce blinking, which helps spread tears evenly across the eye.*

Eyelid Problems

Conditions that prevent the eyelids from closing properly can lead to increased tear evaporation.**

What can cause Dry Eye?

Dry Eye can be caused by a variety of factors that disrupt the normal production and maintenance of tears. Some common causes include:

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* Dry Eyes - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic

** Why Are My Eyes So Dry? 6 Causes of Dry Eyes and How to Treat Them

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