Understanding Dry Eyes: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What Are Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes happen when your eyes do not make enough tears or when tears dry up too quickly. Because tears keep your eyes moist and healthy, dry eyes can feel uncomfortable. Many people experience dry eyes at some point. In fact, the World Health Organization notes that dry eyes are a common eye problem worldwide. If you live in a dry or windy area, you may notice symptoms more often. Dry eyes can affect your daily life, but simple steps can help.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Often, dry eyes cause mild to moderate discomfort. However, symptoms can vary from person to person. For example, you may notice:

Stinging or burning in your eyes

Feeling like something is in your eye

Red or irritated eyes

Watery eyes (as your body tries to fix dryness)

Blurred vision, especially after reading

Sensitivity to light

Difficulty wearing contact lenses

Because these symptoms can also signal other eye issues, it is important to pay attention to changes in your eyes.

Causes of Dry Eyes

Many things can cause dry eyes. Sometimes, your body does not make enough tears. Other times, tears dry up too fast. Common causes include:

Aging, especially after age 50

Using screens for long periods

Dry or windy weather

Air conditioning or heating

Some medicines, like allergy pills or blood pressure drugs

Health conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis

Wearing contact lenses

Eye surgery, like LASIK

Additionally, women may notice dry eyes due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause.

How Dry Eyes Are Diagnosed

If you have dry eyes symptoms, an eye doctor can help. First, they will ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they may check your eyes with special tests. For example, they might:

Measure how quickly your eyes make tears

Check the quality of your tears

Look for damage on the surface of your eyes

Because these tests are quick and painless, you can get answers right away. Early diagnosis helps prevent problems later.

Treatment Options for Dry Eyes

Thankfully, many dry eyes treatment options are available. Your doctor may suggest:

Artificial tears (eye drops) to add moisture

Prescription eye drops to reduce swelling

Warm compresses to help your eyelids

Special plugs to keep tears in your eyes

Changing medicines if possible

Sometimes, treating a health condition can also help your eyes. Because each person is different, your doctor will choose the best plan for you.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

Simple changes can make a big difference. For example, you can:

Blink often, especially when using screens

Take breaks from reading or computer work

Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air

Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes

Avoid smoke and wind when possible

Drink plenty of water each day

Because prevention is key, these eye care tips can help reduce dry eyes symptoms. If you live in a dry climate, these steps are even more important.

When to See an Eye Specialist

Although mild dry eyes often improve with simple steps, you should see an eye doctor if:

Your symptoms last more than a few days

Eye drops do not help

You have pain, redness, or vision changes

Early care can prevent serious problems. Because dry eyes can affect your vision, do not wait to get help.

For personalized advice on managing dry eyes, consult an eye specialist at Dr. Shubhrat Misurya‘s clinic. They can help you find the best treatment for your needs.