What Are the Common Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome?

At Palm Beach Eye Center, we understand how uncomfortable and disruptive dry eye syndrome can be in your daily life. Whether you're trying to work on a computer for several hours or enjoying the beautiful Florida outdoors, dealing with dry eye can be frustrating. Here, we'll explore what causes dry eye, such as age, hormonal changes, and environmental factors, helping you understand this condition better and pointing you toward effective dry eye treatment options in Lake Worth or Delray Beach, FL.

What is dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. This can happen either because the eyes don't produce enough tears or because the quality of the tears is poor. Common causes of dry eye include irritation, redness, and blurry vision. If you're experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to explore dry eye treatment options at our Lake Worth or Delray Beach, FL office.

What are the common causes of dry eye?

Here are some of the common causes of dry eye:

• Environmental factors: Dry, windy, or smoky conditions can increase tear evaporation.
• Age: Individuals over the age of 50 often experience decreased tear production.
• Hormonal changes: Women experiencing menopause are particularly susceptible to dry eye.
• Medical conditions: Diseases such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and rheumatoid arthritis can affect tear production.
• Medications: Certain drugs, including antihistamines, decongestants, and blood pressure medications, can reduce tear secretion.

How does the environment affect dry eye?

One of the primary common causes of dry eye is environmental factors. Warm, dry climates can significantly decrease tear production or increase tear evaporation, leading to irritation. Additionally, windy conditions and exposure to air conditioning or heating systems can exacerbate this condition.

Can lifestyle choices influence dry eye syndrome?

Certain lifestyle choices can increase your risk of developing dry eye. Prolonged use of digital devices, which encourages infrequent blinking, can contribute significantly to dry eye symptoms. Smoking is another risk factor that can worsen your eye health and contribute to the problem.

What health conditions are linked to dry eye?

Various health conditions can lead to dry eye syndrome. Autoimmune disorders like Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid diseases are known to affect tear production. Additionally, people with diabetes or those who have undergone LASIK surgery may experience increased symptoms of dry eye.

Are medications a common cause of dry eye?

Even certain medications can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants are known to reduce tear production, which can lead to or worsen dry eye symptoms. If you suspect your medication is affecting your eyes, it might be beneficial to discuss alternatives or adjustments with your healthcare provider.

Treatment for dry eye in Palm Beach County

At Palm Beach Eye Center, we are dedicated to providing personalized dry eye treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and causes. Understanding what causes dry eye is the first step toward finding relief. If you're in Delray Beach or Lake Worth, FL, and suffer from dry eye, contact us at Palm Beach Eye Center for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment options. Take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision today.