Part 3 – Environmental Causes of Dry Eyes
This third and final post is a continuation of previous posts on the causes of dry eyes, which can occur in as many as 50% of the population.
In Dry Eyes – Part 1 our Markham optometrists discussed dry eye symptoms including inflammation of the cornea and/or conjunctiva, and an inadequate quality or quantity of tears.
In Dry Eyes – Part 2 our eye doctors discussed several health-related causes of dry eyes including aging, Hormones (pregnancy, menopause), Medications and Diseases.
In Dry Eyes – Part 3 we will discuss the environmental causes of dry eyes, some of which are within your control such as activities.
Decreased Blink Rate
Often when using a computer, tablet, or cell phone, we naturally do not blink as often. When we have a decreased blink rate, we do not produce as many tears to lubricate the surface of the eye. Lack of blinking also contributes to Meibomian gland dysfunction, which is a leading cause of dry eye. Meibomian gland dysfunction can be treated with Lipiflow; now available at Unionville Optometry. For more information on LipiFlow dry eye technology, visit our new Dry Eye Clinic page.
Poor Indoor Humidity
Air conditioning and forced air can decrease the humidity in closed spaces such as your home or office. As a result, tear evaporation can be accelerated causing symptoms of dry eyes.
Outdoor Poor Air Quality
Windy conditions and very dry climates are often causes of dry eyes, as well as poor air quality caused by heavy air pollution or smoke caused by nearby wildfires.
Wearing Contact Lenses
Contact lens wearers often complain of dry eyes and many will stop wearing their contacts (or wear their contacts less frequently) because of it. With so many great contact lenses on the market, this doesn’t have to be the case. Be sure to check out our article on the Top 10 Contact Lenses FAQ.
Eye Strain
Usually caused by too much screen time in front of a TV, computer, or other electronic devices, eye strain is one of the more common causes of dry eyes. Be sure to check out our article on How to Prevent Eye Strain.
Frequent Flying
The air inside an airplane cabin is often dry and may cause many frequent flyers to complain of dry eyes.
Cigarette Smoking
This not only causes eyes to feel dry but can also lead to serious eye problems like macular degeneration and cataracts.
Surgery
LASIK and other refractive surgeries, as well as cosmetic eyelid surgery, can also cause dry eyes. Most of the time the condition and discomfort are only temporary.
Book Your Eye Appointment Today
If you are experiencing dry eyes it is important to see your eye doctor right away. If left untreated, dry eyes can potentially cause permanent damage to your eyes and lead to corneal ulcers. Early detection is critical. This is why our Markham optometrists at Unionville Optometry perform dry eye tests during all routine eye exams.
We hope this series of blog articles on the causes of dry eyes have increased your awareness of overall eye health.
To make an appointment today with our optometrists, Dr. Krista, Dr. Mark, or Dr. David Innamorato, please call our Unionville optometry office at 1-905-477-4488. You may also contact us online or send us an email.
Visit this article on dry eyes diagnosis and treatment by the American Optometric Association to learn more.