Many of us experience dry eyes at some point in our lives due to allergies, low humidity, or harsh weather. But for some people, dry eye is a daily struggle that impacts their quality of life and even affects their vision. Tears are essential for keeping our eyes healthy and comfortable. Dry eye happens when your tears evaporate too quickly, or your tear glands don’t produce enough tears.
This condition can make it difficult to perform daily tasks, such as reading, driving, or working on computers. And the longer dry eye goes untreated, the worse it gets and the higher your risk for complications. In this blog post, we’ll explore the common causes and symptoms of dry eyes to help you better understand this condition and find relief.
Common causes of dry eyes
Environmental factors
One of the most common causes of dry eyes is exposure to environmental factors such as wind, smoke, or dry air. Spending long hours in front of a computer screen or under fluorescent lights can also contribute to dry eye symptoms. If you find yourself in any of these situations frequently, it may be worth considering protective eyewear or taking breaks from screens to give your eyes a rest.
Age & hormonal changes
As we age, our bodies go through changes that can affect tear production. Women going through menopause or hormonal fluctuations may also experience an increase in dry eye symptoms due to changes in tear composition. If you notice an increase in dryness as you get older, it’s essential to discuss these symptoms with your eye doctor.
Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders can also lead to dry eyes. These conditions can impact tear production or quality, leading to chronic dryness and irritation. If you have been diagnosed with any of these conditions and are experiencing dry eye symptoms, make sure to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage both your underlying condition and your eye health.
Medications
Some medications can cause dry eyes as a side effect. Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and medications for high blood pressure are just a few examples of medications that may contribute to dry eye symptoms. If you suspect that your medication is causing your dry eyes, talk to your doctor about possible alternatives.
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
Dry eye symptoms can vary from person to person but commonly include redness, irritation, a burning sensation, sensitivity to light, blurry vision, and excessive tearing (it sounds counterintuitive, but it’s true!). You may also notice that your eyes feel tired or strained after staring at books or screens for extended periods. If you experience any of these symptoms on a regular basis, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor at EyeQ Optical for a comprehensive eye exam in Spokane Valley.
Our eye doctor will identify the underlying cause of your dry eyes and recommend treatment options to fit your needs. If you suffer from mild dry eye, at-home remedies like using a humidifier in your home, drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, and taking breaks from screen time can help significantly. For more severe cases, our optometrist may suggest prescription eye drops, anti-inflammatory medications, or punctal plugs to slow down the drainage of your tears.
Don’t let dry eyes interfere with your daily life any longer! By understanding the common causes and symptoms of this condition and seeking professional help from our dry eye specialist in Spokane Valley, Washington, you can find relief from discomfort and improve your overall eye health. Give us a call today to book your exam!