7 Common Causes and Reasons for Dry Eye Syndrome

Tears play an important role in protecting our eyes from inflammation and bacteria. Although dry eyes are common in older people, young, healthy people can also get it for various that we will discuss. If you feel irritation and dryness in your eyes, visit an eye doctor near you, as dry eyes can result in vision loss if not treated early. In the article below, we will provide you with tips on eye care and the causes of chronic eye syndrome.

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye is an eye condition that occurs when your body fails to produce enough eye lubrication in the form of tears. Tears are made from a combination of oil, water, and mucus. When these materials are inadequate, they could produce insufficient, unstable, or low-quality tears. In addition, other factors such as humidity, wind, and coldness of air can cause tears to evaporate at a quick rate and cause eye irritation.

7 Common Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome

Here are some common causes of dry eye syndrome:

Medication

Some medications can impede mucus production and lead to chronic dry eye. Common examples of these medications include antidepressants, decongestants, birth control, and sleeping pills. If the reason for experiencing dry eyes is medically related, talk to your doctor about it; they can give you an alternative drug.

Laser Treatment

Dry eyes are very common in patients who have recently undergone laser vision correction surgery. Laser surgery involves cutting nerves located in the cornea; this often results in low tear production. Usually, effects caused by laser treatment wear off on their own as time passes. As you wait for the side effects to completely wear off, use lubricating eye drops to moisturize your eyes.

Computer Screen

Prolonged use of computers does not only result in back problems and headaches. Chronic eye problems commonly affect people working with computers for long periods; when you are working, you tend to blink less often. Blinking is often essential in eye lubrication since your eyes are covered with a tear film lubricant. Every time you blink, the eye surface is lubricated.; This replenishes the evaporated tears and protects your eyes from irritation. Therefore, when working with computers, blink more often and take a few breaks to hydrate.

Dehydration

Every tear you produce contains oil, mucus, and water. When there is no balance in the mixture, the amount and quality of the tear reduce. If you do not drink enough water, your body will lack the necessary resources to produce enough tears to lubricate your eyes. To prevent dehydration from affecting tear production, make sure you drink water frequently.

Exposure to Smoke

There are various reasons why you should avoid getting close to smoke. Apart from air deprivation, smoke can cause irritate your eyes and cause an itching sensation. If you smoke cigarettes and find it difficult to stop, ask your doctor to prescribe you drugs to reduce the cravings. You should also adopt modern cooking and heating technology to reduce smoke exposure.

Strong Wind

Strong winds and cold climatic conditions can cause tears to evaporate quickly. If you live in an area that experiences cold climates and strong winds, we recommend you wear fit or wrap-over sunglasses when outdoors. The sunglasses will protect your eyes from strong and cold wind. If the symptoms persist, look for dry eye therapy near you.

Allergies

Allergic reactions could trigger chronic eye syndrome. If you get reactions such as redness and itchiness in your eyes when exposed to certain food or medications, visit an eye doctor in Monterey to get tested for allergies. A positive test for allergies will require you to watch what you eat or start using eye medication to control the side effects.

How to Prevent Dry Eyes

• Use a humidifier to increase moisture in the air during the winter season
• Blink often and take regular breaks when working with computers
• Stop smoking and avoid sitting close to smokers
• Avoid using firewood for heating and cooking

Complications of Chronic Eye Syndrome

• When not treated soon, dry eyes can lead to inflammation and loss of vision.
• Dry eyes affect your concentration and reduce your productivity at work.
• Tears protect your eyes from dirt and other debris. When tears are not adequately produced, you have an increased chance of developing eye inflammation.

Conclusion

Chronic eye syndrome is manageable. Follow all the tips we have provided above and go for dry eye treatment in Monterey, CA when you experience eye irritation or inflammation. Late diagnosis and treatment of dry eyes could lead to serious complications in the future. Contact our eye doctor in Monterey at Eye MD Monterey-Cass St today for a complete eye checkup and assessment. We have an intimate setting that allows us to know our patients while providing high-quality and compassionate eye care.