What are the 5 most common causes of dry eyes?
- Ageing - Degeneration of the eyes as we age leads to conditions like dry eye. Proteins that help make up the tear film decline as we get older and the volume of tears produced grows smaller.
- Hormone changes - Hormonal changes take place when taking hormonal birth control, during pregnancy and during menopause. Dry eyes can be a side effect of these hormonal changes.
- Systemic diseases including diabetes and autoimmune diseases - Diabetes can cause changes in the nerve tissue. Tear secretion is interrupted when diabetes-related nerve damage occurs and the eyes become dry, especially when the patient’s blood sugar levels are not under control. Autoimmune disorders, such as Sjögren's syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis cause inflammation that can lead to dry eyes.
- Medications - Medications including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy to relieve symptoms of menopause, and medications for anxiety, Parkinson’s disease, and high blood pressure have been associated with dry eyes.
- Environmental factors - Prolonged periods of screen time encourage insufficient blinking. Windy, smoky, or dry environments increase tear evaporation. Laser refractive eye surgery (LASIK) may worsen dry eyes.
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