What Causes Dry Eyes?

The first signs of dry eyes or the lack of lubricating tears will be the burning, stinging and scratchy feelings

Under normal conditions, the eyes are bathed with proper lubrication. This lubrication or tears forms a film on the eyes surfaces. With a disruption of these tears there will be a condition called dry eyes or keratoconjunctivitis sic'ca. This will be noticed as burning, stinging and scratchiness of the eyes.

Our normal bodily functions create two types of tears. Crying and watering of the eyes creates tears called reflex tears. The other tears that are made are lubricating tears. These are the tears that are formed as a film on the eyes and are intended to keep the eyes lubricated. The tears are not noticeable, but under normal conditions they are there doing their job.

The first signs of dry eyes or the lack of lubricating tears will be the burning, stinging and scratchy feelings. The eyes may water during this time but it will not help because these are reflex tears and not lubricating tears.

Keratoconjunctivitis sic'ca can be caused by several things. The most predominate cause for dry eyes in today's aging population, is just that, as we age we produce less tears. The heat and air systems in our homes are super, but not good for the proper tear film in our eyes. The wind blowing on us may help to keep us cool, but it really does a number on the eyes. The medications that we take may help us feel better, but sometimes at a cost to the eyes. Rheumatoid arthritis and eye injuries can cause problems with the eyes.

Glands located in the upper portion of the eyelid produce lubricating tears, which flow over the eye surface. The tears drain from the eyes into canals leading into the nose.

To determine what causes the eyes to be dry, the optometrist will need information about the patients over all health. Then he/she will examine the film of tears on the eyes and calculate the production levels of the tears. When informing the doctor about the history of your health make sure all medical conditions are discussed. There are many conditions that can affect the product of adequate tears. The optometrist will need full disclosure of all medications being used, to include antihistamines and drops for the eyes. If you wear contacts, the doctor will need to know the type and how often you wear them.

The doctor will examine the eyes with a unique microscope referred to as a slit lamp. This will show the tear film and in conjunction with eye drops containing dye, any dry spots will show.

The doctor will also measure the production of tears. Anesthetic drops may be used to numb the eyes before filter papers are folded over the lower lids. The eyes must remain closed for approximately five minutes while the tear film is absorbed into the paper. The total fluids absorbed are an indicator of tear production.

Treating dry eyes with artificial tears is the most common prescription. In severe cases where the artificial tears don't give relief for the condition, there may be a need to put in plugs or use surgery to stop excessive draining to increase tear film.

The use of lubricating eye drops or artificial tears can replace natural tears. A prescription is not needed to purchase most of these eye drops. All eye drops are not the same, some are for the relief of redness and itching and others are for lubricating. Consult with the pharmacist to insure you purchase the proper drops.

A high percentage of the drops for lubricating the eye have a preservative in them to make them last longer. Lubricating eye drops without preservatives is a good alternative if your eyes are sensitive to these drops. The use of lubricating ointments at night is very effective.

In severe cases of dry eyes plugging the lower punctum drainage canal may be required. This works just like a stopper in a sink to allow only a minute amount of tears to drain from the eye. The first time the plugs are used they may be temporary and will dissolve a few days later. If they have helped with the condition, permanent plugs can be installed. There is no pain while the plugs are inserted because the eyes are numbed with anesthetic drops. There should be no pain after the numbness dissipates.

If plugs and artificial tears have failed to provide relief, minor surgery as an outpatient may be needed. This surgery either narrows or blocks openings of the drainage canals. If eyelid problems are cause the dry eyes there may be other surgeries required.

Want help with your dry eyes? Use the following do and don't list: Do moisten the air in a room with a humidifier; Do use wraparound glasses when outside; Do stay out of windy or smoky areas; Don't use eye makeup and contact lenses; Don't use aerosols; Don't use hair dryers; Don't use air conditioning.