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Dry eyes can be irritating and painful, which is why it is important to understand what causes dry eyes, and what you can do about it. Keep reading to learn more:

What Causes Dry Eyes?
There are many different factors that cause dry eyes—common factors include:
Medications—Sometimes dry eyes are a side effect of taking certain medications. Antidepressants, birth control pills, acne medications, and antihistamines can all cause dry eyes.

  • Aging—Dry eyes are commonly associated with aging because tear ducts often become less productive as people age. Dry eyes are also more common after menopause.
  • Exposure—Being outdoors can cause dryness, especially if the climate is very dry or if it is windy.
  • Insufficient Blinking—When you participate in activities like driving, reading, and working on a computer, you usually blink less, which can cause dryness.
  • Disease and Illness—Certain diseases (especially eye diseases) can result in dry eyes, which is why you should visit an optometrist of you have chronic trouble with dry eyes.

What Other Symptoms Are Associated With Dry Eyes?
Having dry, itchy, red eyes is the most common symptom associated with dry eyes, but there are other symptoms as well. Other symptoms include:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • A gritty sensation
  • Overall discomfort
  • Watering eyes
  • Tired eyes
  • Blurred vision

How Are Dry Eyes Treated?
There are many ways to treat dry eyes, depending on the severity and length of your symptoms.
For mild irritation, you may be able to make lifestyle changes to prevent dry eyes:

  • Wear sunglasses when you’re outside
  • Take breaks when reading or working on a computer to let your eyes rest
  • Switch to another type of medication (after consulting your doctor)
  • Try another style of contact lenses
  • Try lubricant drops to ease itching and pain

If you’ve had dry eyes for a long time, or the symptoms are very severe, it is important to see an eye doctor. An eye doctor can help you determine the cause of the problem and recommend a solution. In some cases, your doctor will recommend prescription eye drops, in other cases, you may need silicone plugs to stop the drainage. Visit Roholt Vision Institute to learn more about the latest technology utilized to help treat and manage dry eye disease.

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