If your eyes feel irritated, itch, burn, or are occasionally excessively watery then you may have dry eye syndrome. This post will discuss some of the common causes of dry eye syndrome.

1.  Systemic Diseases

Diabetes and autoimmune diseases such as arthritis, lupus, and thyroid disease are all linked to increased rate of dry eye.

2.  Medications

Allergy medications, blood pressure medications, hormone replacement medications, oral contraceptives and excessive caffeine are all associated with dry eye.

3.  Environmental Factors

Pollutants, low humidity, windy or drafty conditions can be contributing factors.

4. Blepharitis

A bacterial infection of the lashes that can cause inflammation and irritation to the eye lid margin where some of the tear glands are located.

5.  Smoking

Is there anything smoking is good for?

If you would like to learn more about dry eye, then schedule an appointment with us today.

By Dr. Cook, O.D.