Dealing with dry, irritated eyes can be frustrating, especially when it starts affecting your daily life. At Northwest Hills Eye Care in Austin, Texas, we want to help you better understand what’s causing your dry eyes and what you can do to find relief. Whether your dry eyes are a minor nuisance or a constant discomfort, understanding the causes and symptoms is a great first step toward relief.
What causes dry eyes?
Dry eye happens when your eyes don’t make enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor. Some common causes of dry eye include:
- Aging: Tear production tends to decrease as we age, which is why dry eyes are more common in people over 50.
- Austin’s climate: The hot, dry weather and allergens common in Texas can dry out your eyes.
- Screen time: Staring at a screen for long stretches can make you blink less often, which dries your eyes out more quickly.
- Contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses, especially for extended periods, can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Medications: Some medications, like antihistamines and blood pressure meds, can reduce tear production.
- Health conditions: Conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes can lead to chronic dry eyes.
- Hormonal changes: Women are more likely to experience dry eyes than men due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and menopause and from taking birth control.
Common symptoms of dry eyes
Dry eyes can feel different for everyone, but some common signs to watch out for include:
- Dryness or a gritty feeling: You may feel like sand is in your eyes, even when there’s nothing there.
- Red eyes: Your eyes may look red or bloodshot, especially after a long day in front of a screen or being outside.
- Burning or stinging: Many people experience a burning or stinging sensation, especially during tasks that require intense visual concentration like reading or driving.
- Blurred vision: Dry eyes can cause temporary blurry vision, making it hard to see clearly.
- Light sensitivity: If you’re finding it harder to deal with bright lights or glare, it could be a sign of dry eye.
How to manage dry eye
Dry eye can often be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and treatments. Whether it’s using artificial tears, making adjustments to your routine, or more advanced treatments, there are plenty of ways to help soothe your eyes. At Northwest Hills Eye Care, we offer dry eye treatment in Austin and will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
If you’ve been dealing with dry eye symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s get your eyes feeling comfortable again—contact us to schedule your appointment today!
