Dry eye often occurs with age due to hormonal changes, especially in women after menopause.
Other causes include:
- Medical conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, thyroid disease, lupus
- Eyelid issues: Blepharitis, entropion (inward-turning eyelids), ectropion (outward-turning eyelids)
- Environmental factors: Smoke, wind, dry climates
- Lifestyle habits: Prolonged screen time, reading, or wearing contact lenses
- Eye surgery: Procedures like LASIK
- Medications: Diuretics, beta-blockers, antihistamines, sleeping pills, antidepressants, and heartburn medicines
It’s important to inform your ophthalmologist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications you take, as some may impact tear production. Understanding the causes of dry eye can help you and your doctor identify effective ways to manage the condition.
Reference:
What Is Dry Eye? Symptoms, Causes and Treatment, https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-dry-eye, last accessed on 18th December 2024.