What Are the Leading Causes of Dry Eyes?

As a Wisconsinite, you know the winter drill. A frigid chill outdoors and dry warmth indoors. It’s all about adapting. But when you are living with dry eyes, every element seems to work against you to exacerbate your discomfort. The biting cold outside air strips what moisture you have in your eyes, leaving them feeling scratchy and irritated. Once inside, that dry heat sucks out any remaining moisture. You may be warm, but your eyes are miserable. So what is really the cause behind those dry eyes, and why did they crop up out of the blue?

What Exact Is Dry Eyes?

As the name suggests, dry eye is a condition characterized by not having enough lubrication on the surface of your eyes. And just like the creaky wheel that needs a little grease to keep functioning, your eyes need to maintain a protective layer of oil that protects them from the elements and allows them to function as expected. Without that protective layer, your eyes get scratchy and irritated. Wisconsin weather only makes it worse.

Getting to the Root of Dry Eyes

The most common causes of dry eyes are:

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): A big name for a problem with the gland that provides your eye lubricant. Without it, your tears evaporate too quickly.
• Aging: Unfortunately, getting older makes dry eyes more common, especially in women, thanks to hormonal changes associated with menopause.
• Environment: Living in dry, windy climates or environments with smoke or air conditioning can cause your tears to evaporate more quickly.
• Screen time: Prolonged computer use, smartphone or tablet scrolling, or focused gaming can cause you to blink less often, which also causes tears to evaporate quickly.
• Medications: Some allergies, high blood pressure, and antidepressant medications can also reduce tear production.

No matter the cause of your dry eyes, expert healthcare professionals can offer guidance and treatment plans to help alleviate your symptoms.

Explore Options for Treating Your Dry Eyes

If you are tired of dealing with the hassle and annoyance of dry eyes, reach out to our experts at Milwaukee Eye Surgeons in Brookfield, WI. Call 414-377-5550 to schedule an appointment to discuss the options that are available to help you find relief.