The 5 Most Common Causes of Dry Eye

At Butler Eye Care, we have years of experience providing Lebanon residents with reliable eye care. This includes the identification and treatment of dry eye syndrome. Our eye doctor will evaluate your condition and provide you with the most effective possible dry eye treatment.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Symptoms generally affect both eyes and include:

• Light sensitivity
• Eye redness
• A feeling of having something in the eye
• Stringy mucus around or directly in the eyes
• Blurred vision
• Eye fatigue
• Unable to comfortably wear contact lenses
• A burning, scratchy, and/or stinging sensation in the eyes
• Difficulty driving at night
• Watery eyes

Five Most Common Causes of Dry Eye

1. Aging

People older than 50 are most likely to contract dry eyes. As you age, the volume of tears generated by our tear glands tends to decrease. Lubricating drops can give short-term relief, but the condition can become long-term as you approach middle age.

2. Uninterrupted Screen Time

Extended hours before a computer screen puts enormous strain on your eyes, leading to headaches and dry eyes. This causes glands to fail to generate tears that provide lubrication for your eyes. Dryness and irritation are the results.

3. Use of Heavy Medication

Our tears are composed of water, oil, and mucus. Certain medications can lead to impaired mucus production. Lower-quality tears may lead to dry eyes.

4. Overexposure to Wind

Cold weather conditions, in particular, involve heavy winds that cause tear ducts to quickly dry out. This can lead to a chronic dry eye if left unaddressed.

5. Sjogren's Syndrome

This is a rare autoimmune condition that attacks the tear ducts. Sjogren's Syndrome also reduces the body's white blood cells count.

Optometry Services in Lebanon, MO

If you require dry eye treatment in Lebanon, MO, the optometry professionals at Butler Eyecare are ready to assist you For more information or to schedule an eye exam, call us at (417) 991-3200.