Understanding causes of dry eyes: Symptoms, triggers and treatment options

Dry eyes, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, are a common condition that affects millions worldwide due to various reasons.

It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. The condition is usually not serious, but it can be uncomfortable and cause irritation or inflammation of the eyes.

In this article, we will explore the causes of dry eyes, the signs to look out for and what to do if it occurs suddenly.

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What are causes of dry eyes?

Causes of dry eyes (Image via Pexels/Yaroslav Shuraev)

Several factors can contribute to dry eyes. Some of the common causes include:

Age

As we age, the production of tears reduces, making dry eyes more prevalent. Women are more prone to the condition, especially after menopause.

Medications

Certain medications, like antihistamines, antidepressants and blood pressure drugs, can be causes of dry eyes.

Medical conditions

Medical conditions like Sjogren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can cause dry eyes. These conditions affect the immune system and can damage the glands responsible for tear production.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors like dry air, wind and smoke can cause dry eyes. That's because these factors increase tear evaporation, leading to dryness.

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Signs of dry eyes

The signs of dry eyes can vary from mild to severe, depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Some of the common signs include:

• Scratchy or grippy feeling in the eyes
• Experiencing stinging or burning in the eyes
• Red eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Distorted vision
• Eye squinting
• Watery eyes

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What causes dry eyes all of a sudden?

Dry eyes can happen suddenly. (Image via Pexels/Tima Miroshnichenko)

Dry eyes can occur suddenly, even if you have not experienced it before. Some of the common causes of dry eyes include:

Medications

Certain medications, like antihistamines, can cause sudden dry eyes as a side effect.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors like wind, smoke and dry air can cause sudden dry eyes.

Dehydration

Dehydration can cause sudden dry eyes. That's because dehydration reduces the amount of moisture in the body, including the eyes.

Allergies

Allergies can cause sudden dry eyes. That's because allergies can cause inflammation and irritation of the eyes, leading to dryness.

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What to do when you have dry eyes?

What to do when you have dry eyes? (Image via Pexels/Cottonbro)

If you have dry eyes, there are several things you can do to manage the condition. Here are some tips:

Use eye drops

Using eye drops can help lubricate the eyes and relieve the symptoms of dry eyes. However, it's important to use eye drops that are preservative-free and recommended by your eye doctor.

Adjust your environment

Adjusting your environment can help reduce symptoms of dry eyes. That can include using a humidifier, avoiding dry air and wearing protective eyewear when outdoors.

Take breaks

If you spend a lot of time staring at a screen, take frequent breaks to rest your eyes. That can help reduce eye strain and prevent dry eyes.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help keep your body hydrated, including the eyes. That can help to reduce symptoms of dry eyes.

See an eye doctor

If the symptoms of dry eyes persist, it's important to see an eye doctor. They can assess your condition and recommend treatment options, like prescription eye drops or other interventions.

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Dry eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but it's usually not serious and can be managed with simple lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments. However, it's important to see an eye doctor if the symptoms persist or exacerbate, as it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

To surmise, dry eyes can be caused by several factors, including age, medications, medical conditions, environmental factors and contact lenses. The signs of dry eyes can vary from mild to severe, and sudden dry eyes can occur due to medications, environmental factors, dehydration and allergies.

If you have dry eyes, it's important to take steps to manage the condition, like using eye drops, adjusting your environment, taking breaks, staying hydrated and seeing an eye doctor if needed. With proper care and attention, you can duly manage dry eyes and improve overall eye health.