Top 5 Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye is a condition where your eyes fail to make enough quality tears to properly nourish and lubricate your eye. In addition to being a physical manifestation of emotion, tears are responsible for helping to provide clear vision and keeping the front surface of your eye healthy. If you suffer from dry eye syndrome, the experts at Eye Site optometry in Katy & Houston will help you find the relief you deserve. In the meantime, continue reading to learn five of the most common causes of dry eye.

Aging Can Cause Dry Eye

One of the top causes of dry eyes is the normal process of aging. In fact, most people who are over 65 experience some degree of dry eye.

Digital Screen Time

If you work at a desk in front of a computer, you may be at an increased risk of dry eyes. Why? Because when you stare at a screen for elongated periods, you may have a decreased blink rate. A healthy blink rate is critical to activating the oil-producing Meibomian glands that spread the necessary tear oils across the eye's surface. As the blink rate decreases, it has a negative, long-term impact on the glands functionality and can lead to dry eye.

Certain Medicines

Did you know that certain types of medications may contribute to dry eye symptoms? Some of the most common types of medicines that can cause dry eye include:

• Decongestants
• Antidepressants
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Antihistamines
• High blood pressure medicines
• Medicines for Parkinson's disease
• Birth control medicines
• Acne medicines

Environmental Factors

Certain environmental factors can increase the evaporation of your tears and lead to dry eye symptoms. For example, wind, smoke, indoor air circulation, and dry air are all notorious for causing dry eyes.

Medical Conditions

In addition to the previously mentioned factors, there are also several diseases associated with causing dry eye syndrome. Those who have diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid problems are at an increased risk of having dry eye symptoms. At the same time, problems with the surface of the eye, blepharitis, or the outward turning of your eyelids can result in the development of dry eye.

Contact Eye Site Optometry in Katy & Houston

If you suffer from dry eye, the experts at Eye Site in Katy or Houston can help you find the relief you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.