Common Causes of Dry Eyes from an Optometrist Near You in Port Dover, ON, Waterford, ON, and Simcoe, ON
Dry eye can be an uncomfortable condition, impacting your ability to read, work on a computer, or even enjoy time outdoors. At Norfolk Family Eye Care, your eye doctor in and optometrist in Port Dover, ON, Waterford, ON, and Simcoe, ON, we understand how frustrating it can be, so we’ve compiled a list of causes of dry eye to help you understand why this happens and how you might find relief.
Aging
As we get older, our bodies naturally produce fewer tears, and the composition of these tears may also change. This often leads to dryness, as our eyes can’t stay as well-lubricated. Dry eye is particularly common among people over 50, and while it’s a natural part of aging, treatments like artificial tears or prescription eye drops can make a significant difference in comfort.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors like wind, dry air, and exposure to smoke can dry out your eyes. Spending a lot of time outdoors, especially in windy or dusty conditions, can exacerbate symptoms. Indoor factors, such as air conditioning or heating, can also dry out the eyes by lowering indoor humidity. Using a humidifier, especially during colder months, can help maintain moisture in your home or office.
Prolonged Screen Time
Staring at a screen for long hours is one of the most common contributors to dry eye today. When we look at computers, phones, or tablets, we tend to blink less frequently, which reduces tear spread across the eyes and leads to dryness. At Norfolk Family Eye Care, we recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away, helping to reduce eye strain and dryness.
Medications
Certain medications can lead to dry eye as a side effect. Antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and even some over-the-counter cold medications can reduce tear production or affect tear quality. If you suspect your medications are contributing to dry eye, speak with your doctor or eye care specialist about alternative options. While you may not always be able to switch, adjusting other aspects of your routine might help manage the symptoms.
Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions can increase your risk for dry eye. Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjögren’s syndrome often interfere with tear production, leading to chronic dryness. Diabetes and thyroid disorders are also linked to an increased likelihood of dry eye. Managing these underlying health conditions and working with your eye care provider can help reduce dry eye symptoms.
Get Dry Eye Treatment from an Optometrist Near You
If dry eye is disrupting your daily life, we’re here to help. At Norfolk Family Eye Care, your eye doctor in and optometrist in Port Dover, ON, Waterford, ON, and Simcoe, ON, we provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific causes and symptoms. From simple lifestyle recommendations to advanced treatments, we’ll help you find relief so you can get back to seeing comfortably. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward healthier, more comfortable eyes. Call us at (519) 583-2020, (519) 900-1393, or at (519) 426-0415 for dry eye treatment from an optometrist near you.