Understanding The Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye is a problem that occurs all too often in people that have difficulties in keeping the eyes moist. It can cause severe burning or stinging in the eyes, sensitivity to light, a feeling of something in the eyes, eye redness, watery eyes, blurry vision, and in some cases, a stringy mucus around the eyes. Knowing the symptoms of dry eye can help you seek optometry treatment from our Wilmette opticians at New Vision Optical Boutique, but understanding the cause of it can give you an idea of what you can do to prevent it.

Decreased Tear Production

One of the main causes of dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is the inability to make enough tears. Certain factors can result in this problem, such as:

• Natural aging
• Laser eye surgery, however, it is only for a short period
• Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, vitamin A deficiency, Sjogren's syndrome, and scleroderma
• Medications for antihistamines, decongestants, hormone replacement therapy, acne medications, prescriptions for Parkinson's disease, and drugs for high blood pressure
• Tear gland damage from inflammation or radiation.

An Imbalance in Tear Composition

Tear film has three main layers: mucus, oil, and water. When an imbalance in these layers occurs, the result can be dry eye. Should the oil film produced by the small glands on the edge of your eyelids, for example, become clogged, the composition of your tears becomes imbalanced.

Increased Tear Evaporation

Another determining factor for dry eyes in an increase in tear evaporation. Some common causes for this issue are:

• Eyelid problems such as in-turning of the lids and out-turning of the lids
• Dry air, wind, and smoke.
• Blinking less often while working at a computer, reading, or driving

Come Visit Us for Optometry Treatment for Your Dry Eye

Your eyes don't need to constantly suffer from dry eyes. If you live in the Wilmette and have dry eyes, we can treat it. Visit New Vision Optical Boutique today, or call our Wilmette opticians at 847-230-4796 to know more about dry eye.