The Various Causes of Dry Eyes

Do your eyes feel dry, itchy, or irritated? You're not alone. In fact, dry eye is a very common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While temporary dry eye can be caused by things like staring at a computer screen for too long or being in a dusty environment, chronic dry eye is usually the result of an underlying health condition. Keep reading to learn about some of the most common causes of dry eyes.

1. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Meibomian glands are tiny sebaceous glands located along the eyelid that secrete an oily substance called meibum. This substance helps to stabilize the tear film and prevent evaporation. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) occurs when these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, which can lead to dry eye. MGD is a very common cause of dry eye, affecting up to 86% of all sufferers.

2. blepharitis

Blepharitis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the eyelids. It can be caused by a number of different things, including bacterial infection, allergies, and seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff). Blepharitis is often associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), as the two conditions often occur together. Blepharitis can also lead to the formation of styes and/or marginal keratitis (inflammation of the cornea).

3. Sjögren's Syndrome

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the moisture-producing glands in the body, including the lacrimal glands (tear ducts) and salivary glands. This can lead to dryness in many different parts of the body, including the eyes, mouth, nose, skin, and lungs. Sjögren's syndrome affects around 4 million Americans, most of whom are women over the age of 40.

4. Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when there is too much sugar in the blood. People with diabetes are at risk for a number of complications, one of which is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious condition that can lead to coma or even death if left untreated. Symptoms of DKA include increased thirst, urination, and appetite; weight loss; fatigue; nausea and vomiting; shortness of breath; fruity-smelling breath; and abdominal pain. If you have diabetes and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical help immediately.

5. Aging

As we age, our bodies change in many different ways—including how we produce tears. The tear ducts may become less efficient at draining tears away from the surface of the eye, and the tear glands may produce fewer tears overall. These changes usually happen gradually and are most likely to affect people over the age of 50.

6. Computer Vision Syndrome

If you spend a lot of time looking at screens—whether it's a computer screen at work or your phone before bed—you may be at risk for computer vision syndrome (CVS). CVS is a condition that's characterized by eye strain, fatigue, headaches, and dry eyes. To help prevent CVS, make sure to take regular breaks while working on the computer or other digital devices; blink frequently; use artificial tears if needed; adjust your screen settings so that they're not too bright or jarring; and position your screen so that it's slightly below eye level and 20-28 inches away from your face.

There are many different causes of dry eyes—from autoimmune disorders to simply spending too much time staring at screens—so it's important to see an eye doctor if you're experiencing symptoms like redness, itchiness, excessive tearing, burning sensations, or light sensitivity on a regular basis."