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Dry eyes aren’t just itchy and uncomfortable, they can also be dangerous, opening your eyes up to infection and making it difficult to see at night. A wide variety of factors can inhibit your body’s ability to produce tears, which lubricate the eyes and prevent inflammation or cause a chemical imbalance that makes your tears ineffective. Below are some of the causes and eye conditions that might lead to dry eyes.

3 Common Causes of Dry Eyes

1. The Aging Process

Aging is the single greatest risk factor for dry eyes, making it one of the most common eye conditions for which people seek treatment. Over time, changes in the circulatory system and placement of crucial glands lead to insufficient and low-quality tear production. Other age-related factors, like diabetes and blood pressure medication, can also affect the body’s ability to create tears.

2. Over-the-Counter & Prescription Medications

eye conditionsDry eyes are one of the most common side effects of antihistamines and other medications. Decongestants also impact tear production, as do prescription medications for acne, depression, birth control, and hormone replacement. If your dry eyes can’t be resolved with eye drops or other measures, ask your doctor to try another medication.

3. Certain Eye Conditions

A variety of chronic diseases and medical conditions can result in inadequate tear production, even if they don’t directly impact your eyes. Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and other autoimmune conditions, for example, often inhibit tear production, and vitamin A deficiencies can lead to inflammation of the eye surface.


 

Since 1963, Tri-State Ophthalmology in Ashland, KY, has offered cutting-edge treatment for a wide range of eye conditions. If you’re suffering from dry eyes, you can rely on their specialists to identify the cause and find an effective solution. Visit their website for a complete list of their eye care services, get more health tips on Facebook, or call (606) 324-2451 now to make your first appointment.

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