Causes Of Eye Dryness Plus Tips For Relief

Eye dryness, or dry eye disease, is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly.

This leads to discomfort and irritation. Understanding the causes of eye dryness can help sufferers find the right treatments and lifestyle changes to cure dry eyes.

In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, treatment tips, preventive methods, precautions, and frequently asked questions about dry eyes.

What Is Eye Dryness?

Eye dryness, known medically as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, results from reduced tear production or excessive tear evaporation.

This causes the eyes to lose moisture, leading to irritation and inflammation of the eye surface and inner eyelids. It is a chronic problem that usually affects both eyes.

Symptoms Of Eye Dryness

Common symptoms of dry eyes include:

Scratchy, gritty, burning, stinging or itchy sensation
Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
Redness, pain, and blurred vision
Sensitivity to light, smoke, or windy conditions
The feeling of having something in the eye
Watery eyes that paradoxically lack adequate tears
Fatigue from eye strain or difficulty keeping eyes open

Causes Of Eye Dryness

Some major causes of dry eyes include:

Age-related decrease in tear production
Autoimmune disorders like Sjogren’s syndrome
Medications with drying side effects
Environmental factors like pollution, smoke
Staring at digital screens for long periods
Natural hormonal changes or menopause
Nerve damage or reflex blockage
Chronic inflammation of eyelid glands
Bacterial eye infections that clog glands
Lasik, cataract surgery, or other eye procedures

Tips To Cure Dry Eyes

Home treatments that can provide relief include:

Using over-the-counter lubricating eye drops as needed
Applying warm compresses to eyelids to melt oil glands
Wearing moisture-sealing glasses or goggles
Stopping medications that cause dry eyes if possible
Adding omega-3s and other healthy fats to your diet
Limiting time on digital devices and taking breaks
Getting adequate sleep gives the eyes time to recover
Using a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air

Prevention Methods

You can help prevent dry eyes by:

Maintaining good eyelid hygiene with cleansers
Wearing wraparound glasses outside to block wind
Quitting smoking which dries eyes over time
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Blinking more frequently when reading or using screens
Avoiding rubbing your eyes which further irritates them

Precautions

See an ophthalmologist promptly if you have:

Unexplained vision changes
Eye pain, swelling, or discharge
Redness, burning, or gritty sensation that doesn’t improve
Signs of eye infection
Fatigue, headaches, or light sensitivity from eye strain

Conclusion

Dry eye disease is a frustrating condition that makes eyes feel irritated, gritty, and uncomfortable. Eye dryness has many causes including aging, autoimmune disorders, environment, medications, gland issues, and eye surgeries.

Combining over-the-counter drops, lifestyle changes like diet, and managing screen time can help cure dry eyes.

See a doctor if symptoms persist or vision problems arise. With a proactive treatment plan, dry eye sufferers can find relief.

FAQs

1. Does eye dryness go away?

There is no cure for chronic dry eyes, but with continued treatment using lubricating eye drops and lifestyle changes, symptoms can be managed and most patients find adequate relief.

2. Can dry eyes cause blindness?

Severe dry eyes may cause corneal damage leading to vision impairment or blindness if left untreated. However, this is very rare. Managing dry eyes helps prevent complications.

3. What is the fastest way to get rid of dry eyes?

Using preservative-free eye drops as needed provides the quickest relief for most cases of dry eye. Also, limit screen time, avoid airborne irritants, use a humidifier, and apply warm compresses to treat eye dryness.

4. Are eggs good for dry eyes?

Yes, eggs are nutritious food for dry eyes. The lutein and omega-3s in eggs help reduce inflammation. Eggs also contain vitamin A for eye health. Enjoy them boiled, poached or scrambled.

5. Can lack of sleep cause dry eyes?

Yes, lack of sleep can contribute to dry eyes. Eye strain, incomplete closing of eyes during sleep, and effects on oil glands reduce tear production. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep daily.

Causes Of Eye Dryness – Learn The Most Common Causes And Tips For Treatment