Signs and symptoms include:
- A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye redness and eye fatigue
When to see a doctor: See your doctor if you've had prolonged signs and symptoms of dry eyes, including red, irritated, tired, or painful eyes.
- Frequent Eye infections.
- Damage to the surface of your eyes leading to abrasion and ulceration of the corneal surface
- Decreased quality of life.
Dry eyes are caused by a variety of reasons that disrupt the healthy tear film. Your tear film has three layers: fatty oils, aqueous fluid, and mucus.
This combination normally keeps the surface of your eyes lubricated, smooth, and clear. Problems with any of these layers can cause dry eyes.
Decreased tear production: Common causes of decreased tear production include:
- Aging
- Autoimmune disorders, allergic eye disease, thyroid disorders, or vitamin A deficiency.
- Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants.
- Corneal nerve desensitivity caused by contact lens use, nerve damage, or that caused by laser eye surgery.
Increased tear evaporation: Common causes of increased tear evaporation include:
- Posterior blepharitis (meibomian gland dysfunction)
- Blinking less often
- Eyelid problems, such as the lids turning outward (ectropion) and the lids turning inward (entropion)
- Wind, smoke, or dry air
- Vitamin A deficiency
- Dry eyes are more common in people over 50.
- Deficiency of vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids
- Wearing contact lenses or having a history of refractive surgery.
- Avoid air blowing in your eyes.
- Add moisture to the air with humidifier.
- Take eye breaks during long tasks.
- Be aware of your environment. The air at high altitudes, in desert areas, and in airplanes can be extremely dry.
- Position your computer screen below eye level.
- Use artificial tears regularly.
