What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye is caused by your eye being unable to produce enough tears to stay moisturized. This can cause discomfort and even lead to vision problems. Those at a higher risk for developing dry eye are those over the age of 50, especially women due to menopause. Additionally, those that wear contact lenses or are experiencing vitamin A deficiency are also at a higher risk. Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:

• Side effect of medication

• Laser eye surgery

• Screen exposure

• Dry or windy environments

• Various health conditions, such as lupus, diabetes, or thyroids

Six Dry Eye Treatment Options

Artificial Tears

Commonly sold over-the-counter, artificial tears provide moisture to the eyes and contain ingredients similar to what's found in your natural tears. Most eye doctors prefer preservative-free artificial tears, as many preservatives can cause further irritation. Use artificial tears as needed to make your eyes more comfortable but are a short-term treatment option. If you find yourself using them more than four times a day, set up an appointment with one of our optometrists to find a more effective treatment option. 

Eye Ointments

Sometimes, you may need a treatment that's more intensive than artificial tears. Eye ointments are also sold over the counter but are thicker than artificial tears. Because they are thicker and may affect your vision, they are typically used at night. Ointments may be particularly helpful if you find yourself regularly waking up with scratchy eyes.

Gently Washing Your Eyelids

Some patients have dry eye caused by a blockage of the oil glands around the eyelids. This can lead to a type of inflammation referred to as blepharitis. If diagnosed, your eye doctor can recommend eyelid cleansers as well as a warm compress regimen to combat inflammation.

Prescription Medication

Prescription eye drops, such as Cequa, Restasis, and Xidra, work to target eye inflammation and help your eyes produce more tears. These medicines are usually reserved for treating moderate to severe dry eye. Your doctor may also discuss other medications that can help your dry eyes, such as corticosteroids and antibiotics. Some of these medications are eye drops, while others are taken orally.

Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs are a treatment option that helps your eye hold onto its own tears. Your eye doctor inserts this small device into your tear ducts to help you conserve your natural tears longer.

Autologous Serum Drops

A rather advanced dry eye treatment option for more severe symptoms is to use eye drops made from your own blood. These drops are called autologous serum drops and can be quite effective. The process involves taking a blood sample, removing the blood cells, and then combining them with a salt solution. The resulting serum has elements like your natural tears, allowing you to apply it to your eyes as eye drops. Autologous serum drops are a long-term option for treating dry eye disease. However, this is not a common treatment option.

How to Prevent Dry Eye

If you're able to prevent dry eye symptoms, your eyes will thank you. Here are a few quick tips to help avoid dry eyes and increase your eye health:

• Add a humidifier to any room where you spend a lot of time

• Avoid exposure to smoke

• Make sure your eyes aren't directly exposed to air vents and fans

• Take breaks from screen time regularly to refresh your eyes. Make sure to blink regularly when using screens

• Wear sunglasses when you are outside, as this helps to lower exposure to the wind and other elements

• Drink enough water every day; dehydration can make your symptoms worse