Redness, irritation and itching -- the symptoms of dry eye can be uncomfortable and even painful. Because your eyes rely on consistent tear production to remove debris and keep the eye moist, dryness in the eye can cause a condition known as dry eye syndrome. Treating the underlying causes of dry eye syndrome can help you find relief.
Causes
As you age, your hormone production decreases, resulting in reduced tear production, according to All About Vision. If you are going through or have gone through menopause, you may notice your eyes becoming drier. Consistently dry eyes can be the result of medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines and blood pressure medications. Living in an arid, dusty or windy climate also can reduce moisture in your eyes. Wearing contact lenses or having a medical condition such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis also can contribute to dry eyes.
Diagnosis
If you experience consistently dry eyes, your eye doctor likely will perform a test known as the Schirmer test to determine if you have dry eye syndrome. Your physician places a thin strip of filter paper on the lower eye. When it is removed, your physician can determine the presence of tear production against a tear production standard. If yours is lower than the average, you likely have dry eye syndrome, which indicates your eyes do not produce a sufficient amount of tears on their own.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle adjustments can help to minimize the effects of dry eyes. Take frequent eye breaks if you look at a computer screen regularly, advises the American Optometric Association. Wearing sunglasses when your eyes are exposed to the wind or sun can protect your eyes from the elements. Use a humidifier in your home to increase humidity and reduce the amount of dry air. Drink between eight and 10 glasses of water per day to give your body enough water to produce tears.
Treatment
Treatments for dry eye syndrome depend upon the underlying cause of your symptoms. Over-the-counter treatments include eye drops applied at least four times per day, according to MayoClinic.com. Keeping the eyes clean through gentle washing can help to reduce inflammation. Placing a warm washcloth over the eyes for five minutes at a time also can help. If your dry eyes do not respond to conservative treatments, your physician may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics. Silicone plugs also can be applied to the eyes, which help to add artificial tears and conserve your real tears.
Warning
Failing to treat consistently dry eyes can result in severe complications. Without enough lubricating tears, your eyes are prone to an increasing number of infections, according to MayoClinic.com. Dry eyes can cause scarring on your cornea, which can result in impaired vision and inflammation. Seek a physician's treatment to reduce dry eye complications.
