What Are The Most Common Causes of Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a common issue we see among patients in League City and the surrounding areas. Whether you're spending long hours in front of a screen, dealing with the Gulf Coast climate, or experiencing age-related changes, dry eye can make daily activities uncomfortable.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Healthy tear production is essential to lubricate the surface of your eyes, protect against infection, and ensure clear vision. When the tear film is compromised, your eyes may feel gritty, tired, or overly watery due to reflex tearing.
 

Most Common Causes of Dry Eye

Several factors can contribute to dry eye. Understanding the cause is the first step in finding relief.
 

• Age and Hormonal Changes: Dry eye becomes more common with age, particularly in individuals over 50. Hormonal shifts (especially during menopause) can affect tear production, making women more susceptible.

• Screen Time: Spending hours staring at screens (computers, phones, tablets) reduces your blink rate, leading to quicker tear evaporation and eye dryness.

• Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can interfere with the tear film and cause discomfort or dryness over time.

• Environmental Conditions: Windy climates, air conditioning, heating systems, and even smoke can dry out the eyes. Living in League City, where warm weather and AC use are common, may increase your risk.

• Medications: Certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure drugs, and acne treatments can reduce tear production.

• Medical Conditions: Health issues like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, and Sjögren’s syndrome are commonly associated with chronic dry eye.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When the oil-producing glands in your eyelids become clogged or don’t function properly, the tears evaporate too quickly, contributing to dryness and irritation.
   

Why You Need to See Your Optometrist

Dry eye isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. While over-the-counter artificial tears can offer temporary relief, they don’t address the root of the problem. That’s why it’s essential to visit your optometrist to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. 
 

At Bird’s Eye View League City, we perform a comprehensive evaluation to uncover what’s contributing to your dry eye. This may include tests like tear break-up time and tear quality analysis, an assessment of your blink patterns and eyelid function, as well as a review of your medical history and any medications you’re taking. Once we’ve pinpointed the specific factors involved, we tailor a personalized treatment plan to target your needs.
 

Take the First Step Toward Clearer, More Comfortable Vision

If you live in League City or nearby communities and are struggling with dry, irritated eyes, don’t settle for temporary fixes. We are here to identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle.
 

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a dry eye evaluation at Bird’s Eye View League City today. Visit our office in League City, Texas, or call (713) 944-4182 to book an appointment.