The inability of the eyes to produce sufficient tears and maintain their lubrication is counted amongst the primary causes of dry eyes. As a result of less moisture in the eyes, they tend to become dehydrated. A significant percentage of people are known to suffer from dry eyes.

Some signs that indicate the onset of dry eyes include scars, inflammation, a tendency to scratch the eyes, heaviness, blurry vision, burning sensation, reddishness, and tenderness of eyes.

Before understanding the causes of dry eyes, it is useful to know that the three constituents make up our tears. These are inclusive of oils or lipids, water or aqueous solution, and mucus or mucins. The mixture of these contents is known to prevent our eyes from developing infections. It is imperative that our eyes maintain their lubrication for remaining healthy. Additionally, it helps to eliminate dust and microbial elements, prevent infectivity, and protect the cornea from getting damaged.

The three layers that have a role to play in supporting ocular health include oils, mucus, and water. The lipids bear the responsibility of preventing the rapid evaporation of tears and maintaining the lubrication of the eyes. The mucus-based layer ensures that the tears are spread across the surface of the eyes. These three contents that make up the tears are secreted by the various eye glands.

• The Meibomian glands release the oil.
• The lacrimal glands secrete the watery substance. If the lacrimal glands fail to release enough water for keeping the eyes moisturized, the person is afflicted with ‘aqueous deficiency dry eye.’
• The goblet cells of the conjunctiva produce the mucins.

The failure of any of these tear layers in performing their functions leads to inconsistencies in tear makeup.

If you are doubtful whether you have dry eyes, it is advisable to consult a doctor for a diagnosis to confirm the same. They will perform certain eye tests for ascertaining your condition and will prescribe medicines if the results are positive. Some of the leading causes of dry eyes are listed below:

Lowered tear produce
One of the causes of dry eyes is the reduced production of tears due to which the eyes are not sufficiently lubricated. This condition is termed as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca. The reasons behind this condition could be one of the following:

• Age
• Intake of drugs for illnesses such as high blood pressure, acne, birth control, and Parkinson’s disease
• Laser eye-based surgeries
• Consumption of hormone-based pills, decongestants, antihistamines, and antidepressants
• Disorders such as rheumatism, vitamin-A deficiency, Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes, lupus, thyroid-related illnesses, and scleroderma
• Damage caused to the tear glands as a result of inflammation or exposure to radioactive elements
• Increased evaporation of tears

An increased evaporation of tears is also listed under the grouping of common causes of dry eyes. The below-listed details contain the reasons for these incidences.

• Harsh winds, smoky atmosphere, or dry air
• Excessive in-turning or out-turning of the eyelids
• Lack of blinking when engaging in reading, driving, or working on your computer
• Disparities of the constituents

Diagnosis of dry eyes
A series of eye tests will be conducted by medical experts. After this, it can be established that you suffer from dry eyes. Only symptoms cannot determine the condition of your eyes because they vary amongst people. It is only after tests are performed that ophthalmologists will be able to gauge the severity of the condition and chart out the treatment course. Also, be sure to ask your doctor about the causes of dry eyes for preventing recurring episodes of this eye-related anomaly.

Dry eyes are treatable through various methods as follows:

• Take breaks after every hour or so when working on the computer.
• Avail the option of using artificial tears.
• Take doctor-prescribed medicines for secreting more tears and alleviating the inflammation.
• It is advisable to be careful when it comes to the health of your eyes. Be sure to go for an early diagnosis and adhere to your doctor’s instructions for recovering promptly.