Why do my eyes become dry?

Dry eyes is a common condition and often gets worse over time. Our eyes feel dry when tears (the moisture in the eyes) are not able to lubricate well enough. This happens when our eyes don’t make enough tears, but also when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential to eye health and if you experience dry eyes for a prolonged period, a visit to your optometrist is vital.

Symptoms of dry eyes vary, but is always very uncomfortable. You may experience:

  • Burning or stinging eyes
  • Eye redness
  • Stringy mucus in the eye
  • Light sensitivity
  • Watery eyes (a response to irritated eyes)
  • Scratchy sensation in the eye
  • Difficulty wearing contact lenses
  • Tired eyes

How it works

Tears have three layers: (1) the outside oily (lipid) layer, (2) the watery (aqueous) layer in the middle, and (3) the inner mucous layer. The three layers work together to keep our eyes clear and smooth for good vision, and to protect against infections.

Older people and those with medical conditions are more prone to inadequate tear production and need to pay special attention to the lubrication in their eyes

Treatment

Treatment for dry eyes focusses on increasing lubrication in the eyes. This can be done by keeping tears on the eye longer, improving the quality of tears and identifying external factors that may be contributing eye dryness.

Because there are many different causes and symptoms of dry eyes, the specific treatment will also differ. It is very important that you visit us at Grové Optometrists so that we can align the treatment to your circumstances.

Prevent dry eyes

You can prevent or relieve mild symptoms of dry eyes by:

  • Drinking enough water, especially in dry, hot and windy conditions
  • Blinking more frequently – especially when concentrating intensely or viewing digital devices.
  • Wearing sunglasses when outdoors and driving
  • Reviewing the type of medication you use
  • Avoiding environments with dry and low quality air (e.g. smoke, air conditioned rooms)

Annual eye examinations are vital to ensure that your eyes remain healthy throughout your life. Contact us at Grové Optometrists for a full visual assessment.