Most people have experienced dry eyes, a common issue that can occur when there isn’t enough lubrication in the eyes. For example, dry eyes can occur in dry, dusty environments, or if the eyes simply don’t produce enough tears, causing redness and eye discomfort. Dry eyes can also occur due to certain situations. For instance, the eyes may become dry and irritated following many hours of staring at a computer screen, due to the fact that we tend not to blink and lubricate the eyes. Here are the most common causes of dry eyes: Environmental factors – can impact eye lubrication and tear-flow. For example, highly air-conditioned or heated rooms, and airplanes can cause the eyes to become dry. Eyelid impairment or malformation – can impede the closing of the eyelids and decrease natural lubrication and tear-flow. Certain medications – including over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants, as well as prescription hormone replacement therapy, high blood pressure meds, and oral birth control, can cause dry eyes. Laser eye surgery – can cause temporary or long-term dry eyes. Certain diseases – such as collagen vascular disease, Sjogren’s syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are linked to decreased tear production. Menopause – and aging can cause a gradual reduction in the eyes’ ability to produce tears.

Dry eyes, in many instances, occur due to an underlying health issue (i.e., seasonal allergies or rheumatoid arthritis ), so a doctor will aim to banish dry eyes by treating the underlying issue. For instance, if you happen to be taking a medication that triggers decreased tear-flow, your physician may suggest an alternative drug or refer you to a specialist for treatment. However, if you only experience dry eyes occasionally or seasonally, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter solution (i.e,.artificial tears eye drops) to better lubricate the eyes and decrease symptoms. Effective treatments for dry eyes include: Over-the-counter eye drops The most common remedy for mild or occasional dry eyes is artificial tear eye drops and gels. These drops aim to lubricate the eye with a solution that’s very similar to natural tears. If you suffer from mild, chronic dry eyes, doctors will recommend using natural tears first thing in the morning as well as before bed, as the eyes will tend to dry out during sleep. Prescription eye drops If you suffer from decreased tear production, your doctor may recommend a prescription eye drop for lubrication, such as twice daily Lifitegrast (or Xiidra) or Cyclosporine (or Restasis) to help increase your ability to produce tears.