Why do people get dry eyes?

Dry eye disease is very common. It can occur because there is reduced tear production or excessive loss of tears through evaporation. Most patients have a bit of both. It can cause symptoms like watery eyes, light sensitivity, blurred vision or a scratchy feeling in the eye.

Mr Shabbir Mohamed answers some commonly asked questions about dry eyes and tells us how we can keep them hydrated.

Reduced tear production can occur because of a combination of reasons. A common factor is age, as we get older, tear production decreases. In other patients, reduced tear production can be because of medications used to treat other systemic health issues.

In a small proportion of patients, reduced tear production can be because of a more serious cause such as an autoimmune disease (where the immune system attacks the tear production system).

Increased tear evaporation is also multifactorial. For example, living in an air-conditioned environment, excessive use of screens, an unhealthy tear film, as well as many individual factors can all lead to dry eyes.

If dry eye disease persists for some time, it can lead to a reaction from the body on the surface of the eye which we call inflammation. This can cause pain and worsen dry eye symptoms.

Can dry eye disease cause blindness or affect vision?

Patients with dry eye often report difficulties with visual tasks that require concentration like reading, driving, watching television and undertaking close work. They also notice fluctuating vision where vision is better on some days than on other days.

Unfortunately, if a patient develops severe dry eye disease, there is a significant risk of vision loss and a small risk of blindness. However, with appropriate treatment and care, this risk is very much reduced.

Can pollution cause dry eyes?

There is a link between pollution and dry eyes. Patients living in inner cities have a higher risk of dry eyes, presumably through damage to the tear film from various types of pollution.

Are people with dry eyes more likely to get a stye?

In some patients, there is an abnormality of the eyelid structures. There could be low-level inflammation or infection of glands in the eyelid. These patients sometimes develop styes and other lid infections.

Can dry eyes cause eye floaters?

No. Dry eyes do not cause floaters. However, floaters can sometimes be a sign of a serious eye problem and the eyes need to be examined carefully.

How can I keep my eyes hydrated?

Because tear production is an active process reliant on energy and vitamins, it is important to eat a nutritious and varied diet. It’s also important to keep the body hydrated with clear liquids. Good quality tear replacement is also often helpful. Other treatments would depend on the careful assessment of the individual patient.

Are you experiencing teary eyes, inflammation or blurred vision? Get in touch with Mr Shabbir Mohamed.