Top 5 Causes of Dry Eye

Have you been experiencing stinging, a gritty sensation, or redness in your eyes? You may be suffering from dry eye syndrome, a condition commonly caused by inadequate tear production. When tears do not have the correct chemical balance, they can evaporate quickly, also leading to dry eyes. Since dry eyes can lead to other issues such as infections and double vision, our optometry team at Butler Eyecare in Lebanon, MO, can conduct an eye exam to determine the cause and recommend an effective solution. The most common causes of dry eye syndrome are:

1. Aging

Dry eye syndrome is very common in people over the age of 50. This is because tear production decreases with age. Unfortunately, dry eye syndrome caused by aging cannot be prevented. However, the application of artificial tears can alleviate dry eye symptoms. Artificial tears lubricate your eyes and help relieve dryness.

2. Computer Use

Extensive computer use causes tears to evaporate more quickly, contributing to dry eye syndrome. When staring at a computer monitor, you blink less often. As a result, your tears evaporate at a high rate. Artificial tears can also help here. Our optometry team can evaluate your lifestyle and determine whether computer use is the cause of your dry eyes. If it is, we will prescribe a solution and offer advice on how to prevent the issue from recurring.

3. Vitamin A Deficiency

Vitamin A is essential for healthy eyes. Therefore, the lack of vitamin A can lead to dry eyes, among other issues like night blindness. A diet rich in vitamin A can help mitigate this issue. You can also use eye drops that contain Vitamin A if necessary.

4. Autoimmune Conditions and Allergies

Some autoimmune conditions lower tear production. Allergies can also trigger dry eye syndrome. Our eye doctor will determine whether or not your dry eyes are being caused by an autoimmune condition and provide treatment accordingly. If allergies are the root cause, antihistamine eye drops can help address the problem.

5. Certain Medications

Certain medications, especially those used to treat hypertension, can cause dry eye syndrome. Tears consist of water, mucus, and oil. These medications lower mucus production, leading to dry eyes. Knowing the medications to avoid can prevent this issue in the future.

Visit Us at Butler Eyecare for Dry Eye Treatment

At Butler Eye Care, our optometry professionals have years of experience treating the dry eyes of Lebanon, MO, residents. Our eye doctor will identify and address whatever is causing you to experience dry eye syndrome. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at (417) 991-3200