Causes of Dry Eye
There are several root causes of dry eye. With a comprehensive eye exam, we can diagnose the reason for your dry eye and provide you with an effective treatment plan.
Some examples of causes of dry eye are:
- Environmental: a smoky environment, hot, dry houses during the winter, or dry, air conditioned homes in the summer
- Medications: antihistamines, antidepressants, decongestants, diuretics, and hormone replacement therapies are just a few of the medications that list dry eye as a side effect
- Age: some people may experience reduced tear production as they age and, subsequently, dry eye
- Gender: women tend to be more susceptible to dry eye, especially those who are pregnant or over the age of 40
- Skin and eyelid disorders: inflammatory skin disorders like rosacea or infections and inflammatory disorders of the eyelid can affect the lipid layer of the tear film, leading to dry eye
- Systemic disorders and other diseases: Conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, diabetes, thyroid conditions, and Vitamin A deficiency can cause dry eye
Additionally, those who spend a lot of time working with digital screens, those who wear contact lenses, or those who have had laser eye surgery are more likely to develop dry eye.
