What Causes Dry Eye
Often a variety of causes can combine to contribute to dry eye. If any of the below applies to you and you also have dry eye symptoms, talk with your eye doctor.
Aging
Simply put, our eyes can become more susceptible to developing dry eye as we age. In order to maintain good eye health, the American Optometric Association recommends people older than 60 schedule regular eye exams.
Hormonal Changes
People going through menopause are at a greater risk of experiencing dry eye.
Environmental Factors
Most cities have different environmental factors that can directly affect your eyes. For example, residents of Chicago and New York City are three to four times more likely to experience dry eye symptoms than those in other cities with less air pollution. Residents in cities with higher altitudes have a 13 percent higher chance of experiencing symptoms that were found to be associated with wind and low humidity.
Certain Types of Medications
Antihistamines, decongestants, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants and certain medications for high blood pressure and acne are risk factors for dry eye symptoms.
Gender & Ethnicity
In general, women are more at risk for dry eye due to hormonal changes from pregnancy and menopause. Ethnicity also plays a role in whether or not you have dry eye. Evidence shows that Asian, Hispanic, and Pacific Island populations are more prone to developing dry eye.
Contact Lens Wear
Contact lens wear is a risk factor for developing dry eye. It is important to clean and take care of your contact lenses. If you experience dry eye symptoms while wearing contact lenses, talk to your eye doctor.
Other Health Conditions
People with medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid problems are more likely to have symptoms of dry eye. Inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis) or surface of the eye can also cause dry eye to develop.
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