Common Causes of Dry Eye Disease

While age may be a prominent factor, it can also be triggered by many other factors including:

• Smartphone, computer, video game or screen time usage has been linked to dry eye and Meibomian gland loss by Dr. Cremers in school age children
• Meibomian gland dysfunction (link to MGD content) (MGD) or posterior blepharitis (inflammation of the rims/edge of the eyelids) is the leading cause of dry eye syndrome
• Long-term contact lens wear
• Pregnancy, menopause, hormone replacement therapy or thyroid dysfunction
• Medications, including antihistamines, nasal decongestants, diuretics, tranquilizers, certain blood pressure medicines, Parkinson’s medications, birth control pills, Acctane and anti-depressants
• Injury or surgery
• Immune system disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
• Exposure to irritants such as chemical fumes, tobacco smoke and allergens
• Exposure keratitis, in which the eyelids do not close completely during sleep

In addition to being uncomfortable, it can result in permanent damage to the cornea and the tissue around the eyes can become damaged – eventually impairing your vision if Dry Eye is left untreated. It is critical to have routine eye exams with a board certified ophthalmologist who has experience with diagnosing Dry Eye.

Discomfort in the eye can be extremely aggravating. You would not tolerate a scratched screen on your phone, a blurry computer monitor, or poor picture quality on your TV, all things that would create irritation. Your eyes are your window to the world, don’t let dry eyes cloud or impact your view. We can help!