Dry eye is a pain to deal with and can become a chronic issue if not treated correctly. Dry eye occurs when you cannot produce enough tears to keep your eyes properly lubricated, resulting in red and irritated eyes. In this blog, we will cover what causes dry eyes and treatment methods that can help you if you are experiencing it.

Symptoms of Dry Eye 

• Dry, gritty, or burning sensation in the eyes
• Redness in the eyes
• Eyes that are watery or teary
• Eyes that are “glued shut” with mucus after sleeping
• Light sensitivity
• The feeling of something being stuck in your eye

What Causes Dry Eye? 

Many things can contribute to dry eye, some of these things include:

• Old age: as we get older, our tear production tends to go down. This can lead to problems with dry eye. This is the most common cause of dry eye

• Illness: Lupus. Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma are all things that can cause dry eye in people

• Hormonal Changes: Women who have gone through menopause may experience problems with dry eye as they’ve gone through drastic hormonal changes

• Dry Environment: Something as simple as a dry environment can be the cause of dry eye

• Contact lenses: Many people tend to experience dry eye from their contact lenses

• Medications: Certain medications are known to cause dry eye. These include antihistamines, diuretics, and birth control pills are among the most common

How to Prevent Dry Eye

• Avoid blowing air directly into your eyes. Unknowingly, you can be blowing air directly into your eyes. Avoid fans and air conditioners being directed directly at your eyes 

• Use a humidifier. Using a humidifier during the dryer months can help keep deter the dryness that is in the air

• Take breaks. If you are putting your eyes through strenuous activity, take breaks to allow them to rest and rejuvenate

• Position the computer below eye level. If you are on the computer often, try positioning the computer below eye level. Your eyes are forced to be open wider when the computer is above your eye level. The more they are open, the easier it is for them to get dried out

Get Dry Eye Treatment Today 

If you are struggling with dry eyes and you need treatment, Keamy Eye & Laser Centre in Westborough, MA is the perfect place to go. Led by Dr. Jean Keamy, a board-certified ophthalmologist, the team at Keamy Eye & Laser Centre is full of medical professionals that are prepared to provide you with precision and care. Contact us today at (508) 836-8733 or visit us online at www.seemedrkeamy.com to schedule your consultation.