What are the causes of dry eye?

• Age – Dry eye is part of the natural aging process. The majority of people over the age of 65 experience some symptoms of dry eye.
• Gender – Women are more likely to develop dry eye due to hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives, and menopause.
• Medications – Certain medicines, including but not limited to antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can reduce the amount of tears produced in the eyes.
• Medical Conditions – Persons with rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Sjogren’s, and thyroid problems are more likely to have symptoms of dry eyes.
• Eyelid Disease or Dysfunction – Problems with inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis or meibomianitis) or the inward or outward turning of eyelids can cause dry eye to develop.
• Environmental Conditions – Failure to blink regularly, such as when staring at a computer screen for a long period of time, can contribute to dry eye symptoms. Exposure to smoke, wind, and dry climates or dry air can increase tear evaporation, resulting in dry eye symptoms.
  
• Others:
  • Long-term use of contact lenses
  • Refractive eye surgeries, such as LASIK
  • Allergies
  • Immune system disorders
  • Insufficient vitamins
  • Skin diseases
  • Infrequent blinking
  • Symptoms