Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment Options

Dry eyes are a common eye condition that involves having dry, irritable, eyes. This condition is very common and isn’t usually a sign of something serious. Dry eye syndrome or chronic dry eyes are uncomfortable, but there are ways to treat it and relieve you of your symptoms. In this blog post we will be delving into what causes dry eyes, as well as the treatment options and how you can best manage your symptoms.

What causes dry eyes? 

Chronic dry eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, the most common include ageing and hormonal problems. Dry eyes often happen due to an imbalance in the tear film that covers the surface of the eye. The tear film is composed of three layers: an oily layer, a watery layer, and a mucous layer. Each of these layers plays a role in keeping the eyes lubricated and comfortable. When there is a disruption in any of these layers, it can result in dry eyes. Here are some common causes and contributing factors:

Ageing: As you get older, your production of tears decreases, which leads to an increased risk of dry eyes. This is why people over the age of 50 are more likely to experience dry eyes. 

Hormonal issues: Fluctuations in hormones such as during pregnancy and menopause can affect your tear production, resulting in dry eyes.

Poor blinking habits: Staring at digital screens for too long can cause you to blink less, which can increase your risk of dry eyes. 

The symptoms of dry eyes

If you think you suffer from chronic dry eyes, it’s always  best to visit your GP or local optician. Here are the common symptoms of dry eyes:

• Itchiness
• Redness
• Soreness
• Grittiness
• Blurry vision
• Light sensitivity
• Watery eyes 

If you experience these symptoms it’s very likely you have dry eyes.

How to treat dry eyes 

There are a few ways you can treat dry eyes yourself. The recommended ways are:

• Cleaning your eyelids daily
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air around your eyes
• Take breaks from your digital screens
• Avoid dry and dusty environments
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol
• Avoid smoking

If your dry eyes don’t get better after a few weeks of treating them yourself, you should visit your doctor or an optician. They can discover the cause and suggest treatment options for you. 
For any questions you may have about our eye care services, contact our team any time.

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