Description

Dry eyes, also known as dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a condition where your eyes do not produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to keep the eyes adequately lubricated. This can lead to discomfort and potential damage to the surface of the eyes. Some common causes and risk factors for dry eyes include: Causes: Insufficient tear production: Tear glands may not produce enough tears, leading to dryness. Increased tear evaporation: This can be caused by environmental factors like wind, air conditioning, or smoke. Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and certain blood pressure medicines, can reduce tear production. Aging: Tear production tends to decrease with age, especially after 50 years old. Hormonal changes: Hormonal shifts, especially in women during menopause, can contribute to dry eyes. Health conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus can cause dry eyes. Contact lenses: Long-term use of contact lenses can irritate the eyes and increase dryness. Prolonged screen use: Staring at a computer or phone screen for long periods reduces blink rates, leading to dryness. Symptoms: A scratchy or gritty feeling in the eyes A burning sensation Redness of the eyes Blurred vision Sensitivity to light Watery eyes (as the eyes attempt to compensate for dryness)