Do You Have Dry Eyes? Causes, Symptoms, and the Best Treatments
Dry eyes are a common condition that affects millions of people, causing discomfort and sometimes interfering with daily activities. If you've ever wondered, "Why are my eyes dry?", you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and best dry eye treatments, including when to seek professional care.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes occur when your tears aren’t able to provide adequate moisture. This can happen due to:
1. Decreased Tear Production
Certain factors can lead to a reduced production of tears, including:
Aging – Tear production decreases with age, especially after 50.
Medical conditions – Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can contribute.
Certain medications – Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can reduce tear production.
Laser eye surgery – Some procedures, like LASIK, can temporarily decrease tear production.
2. Increased Tear Evaporation
Sometimes, your eyes produce enough tears, but they evaporate too quickly. This can be caused by:
Screen time – Staring at screens reduces blinking, which helps spread tears evenly.
Wind and dry air – Air conditioning, heating, and outdoor wind can speed up tear evaporation.
Eyelid problems – Conditions like ectropion (outward-turning eyelids) can prevent proper tear distribution.
3. Poor Tear Quality
Your tears consist of three layers—oil, water, and mucus. If the oil-producing meibomian glands are blocked, tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dry eye symptoms.
Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Common signs of dry eyes include:
✔️ A stinging or burning sensation
✔️ Redness and irritation
✔️ A feeling of grit or something stuck in your eye
✔️ Blurred vision that improves with blinking
✔️ Sensitivity to light
✔️ Watery eyes (as a response to irritation)
If you experience these symptoms regularly, it may be time to explore dry eye treatments.
Best Dry Eye Treatments
Fortunately, there are several home remedies and professional treatments available to relieve dry eyes.
At-Home Remedies for Dry Eyes
💧 Use Artificial Tears – Over-the-counter eye drops for dry eyes can provide quick relief. Look for preservative-free options if you use them frequently.
💻 Follow the 20-20-20 Rule – When using screens, take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away to prevent eye strain.
🧴 Use a Warm Compress – Placing a warm compress over your closed eyes can help unclog meibomian glands and improve tear quality.
💦 Stay Hydrated – Drinking enough water helps maintain tear production.
🌬️ Use a Humidifier – If you’re in a dry environment, a humidifier can add moisture to the air and reduce tear evaporation.
🍣 Eat Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts support eye health and may improve tear production.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If dry eyes persist despite home remedies, an eye doctor can provide advanced treatments, such as:
👁️ Prescription Eye Drops – Medications like Restasis or Xiidra can help increase tear production.
🔬 Punctal Plugs – Tiny plugs inserted into tear ducts can help retain moisture by reducing tear drainage.
💡 Light Therapy & Meibomian Gland Expression – Some patients benefit from in-office treatments that unblock oil glands.
Final Thoughts
If you're constantly wondering, "Why are my eyes dry?", it may be time to take action. Simple lifestyle adjustments, the best eye drops for dry eyes, and professional care can provide long-term relief.
At Eye Doctor Long Island, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye syndrome. Book an appointment today to restore comfort to your eyes!