What causes dry eyes, and how can you manage it?

Common Causes of Dry Eyes

Several factors can disrupt your eye's natural lubrication system:   

1. Excessive Screen Time: Spending too many hours staring at digital screens can significantly reduce your blinking frequency, leading to tear evaporation and dry eyes.   

2.  Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, dry air, smoke, and air conditioning can all contribute to increased tear evaporation and dry eye symptoms.   

3.  Prolonged Contact Lens Wear: Wearing contact lenses too long can interfere with tear film stability and oxygen flow to the cornea, often resulting in dry eyes.   

4. Aging: Tear production naturally tends to decrease with age, making dry eyes more prevalent in older adults.   

5. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and certain antidepressants, can have a side effect of reducing tear production.   

6.  Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain autoimmune diseases (like Sjogren's syndrome), hormonal changes, and other medical conditions can be associated with dry eyes.   

7.  Eyelid Problems: Conditions affecting the eyelids, such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), can disrupt tear film distribution and contribute to dry eyes.   

Effective Ways to Manage Dry Eyes

Fortunately, there are several treatments for dry eyes and lifestyle adjustments that can provide relief:

1.  Blink More Frequently: Consciously making an effort to blink more often, especially during screen time, helps to spread tears evenly across the surface of your eyes.   

2.  Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears are a common and effective way to supplement your natural tears and provide lubrication. Experiment with different formulations to find the ones that work best for you.   

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your body, including your tear glands, adequately hydrated.   

4.  Take Breaks from Screens: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain and encourage blinking.   

5. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air, especially in dry indoor environments, can help reduce tear evaporation.

6.  Consider Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to your eyelids can help to stimulate oil gland function and improve tear film quality.   

7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Some studies suggest that increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids through diet or supplements may help improve tear production and reduce inflammation associated with dry eyes.   

Take Care of Your Eyes with Professionals at Vision Looky Optical

If your dryness continues despite trying these self-care measures, it's important to schedule an eye exam or vision check. An eye doctor can perform tests to determine the underlying cause of your dry eyes and recommend the suitable dry eye solution based on your specific eye health conditions and eye care needs. 

At Vision Looky Optical in Carrollton, Texas, we understand the discomfort of dry eyes and offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans. We have comprehensive treatment options available for dry eyes including Eyelid shampoo, dry eye drops, and red light therapy.

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