Although it particularly affects older people, the problem of dry eyes can occur in many others, especially after taking certain medications. Here’s what you need to know about this condition.
Dry eye is a disease of the tears and the surface of the eyes with multiple causes that often lead to chronic inflammation. While this phenomenon of dry eyes is most often related to aging, it can affect all ages.
What is dry eye?
Dry eye occurs when an individual’s tear quantity and/or quality is insufficient. Indeed, tears are produced continuously by the lacrimal glands and then spread over the entire surface of the eye with each blink of the eyelids. Mainly composed of water and fatty substances, they act as a thin barrier in front of the cornea. They protect it from external aggressions (dust, bacteria), hydrate, nourish it, thus avoiding infection and/or damage.
Having dry eyes causes visual discomfort and can, in some cases, lead to corneal irritation and eye infections. In recent years, dry eye cases have increased significantly due to the deterioration of our living conditions (pollution, air conditioning, etc.). Today, nearly a third of the adult population is affected.
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
People with dry eyes experience discomfort, the feeling of having dust in their eyes, a scraping sensation. Dry eye can become red, it is generally tired, and becomes sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. Sometimes, vision becomes blurry. Symptoms can worsen during activities that reduce eye blinking: reading, driving, working on a screen, for example, or in the presence of a windy or dry environment, like an air-conditioned or heated room.
What are the causes of dry eye?
Dry eye can have various origins, and it’s important to know them to better prevent and treat this problem. The main causes are:
Age
Lacrimal glands tend to atrophy over time, reducing tear production. Hormonal fluctuations, such as menopause or andropause, can also contribute to dryness.
Screens
Screen time is on a constant rise, especially among younger individuals. Gazing decreases eyelid blinking by 30 to 50%, thus promoting tear evaporation.
Environment
Atmospheric pollution, air conditioning or heating, pollen, tobacco smoke…
Contact lenses
Hydrophilic soft contact lenses absorb tears, much like a sponge, and can promote dehydration.
Certain diseases and treatments
That’s why any sensation of dry eyes should be reported to your general practitioner or an ophthalmologist.
