VISION CONCERN

Dry Eyes

Also called: dry eyes, gritty eyes, sore eyes, eye strain, itchy eyes

Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly to keep the eye surface adequately lubricated.

TYPICALLY OCCURS

Ageing, tear-film imbalance, screen use and environmental factors

TREATED BY

Prescription treatments, lubricating drops and tear-conservation therapies

ALSO LINKED TO

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Why it happens?

Healthy eyes are protected by a thin layer of tears known as the tear film. This is more complex than simply water: it contains components that help lubricate the eye, prevent tears from evaporating too quickly and maintain a smooth optical surface for clear vision. Dry eye disease can develop when the eyes do not produce a sufficient quantity of tears or when the composition of the tear film is disrupted. One common cause is dysfunction of the meibomian glands in the eyelids, which normally produce oils that help prevent tears from evaporating.

Ageing is an important contributor because tear production and the function of the tear glands can change over time. Hormonal changes, certain medications and some medical or autoimmune conditions can also affect tear production or quality. Eyelid problems that prevent the eyes from closing or blinking normally may expose more of the eye surface and increase evaporation. Contact lens use and previous eye procedures can also contribute to dry-eye symptoms in some people.

Lifestyle and environmental factors frequently influence symptoms. Long periods of computer, smartphone or tablet use can reduce normal blinking frequency, allowing tears to evaporate more quickly. Air conditioning, central heating, wind, smoke and dry environments can have a similar effect. Interestingly, dry eyes can sometimes become very watery because irritation of the eye surface triggers reflex tear production. These watery tears may not have the balanced composition needed to lubricate the eyes effectively, so watering and dryness can occur together.

How far along is it?

Early

Occasional dryness, grittiness or tired eyes develop, often after prolonged screen use or exposure to wind, heating or air conditioning.

Moderate

Burning, irritation, redness, watering or intermittent blurred vision becomes more frequent. Symptoms may begin interfering with contact lens use, reading or screen-based activities.

Advanced

Persistent tear-film disruption can cause considerable discomfort and inflammation of the eye surface. Vision may fluctuate, and more severe cases can potentially lead to damage of the corneal surface.

What addresses it?

Treatments that address this

Dry eye treatments→

Occasional mild dryness can be common, particularly after prolonged screen use or time spent in dry environments. An eye examination is worthwhile when symptoms persist, frequently return or begin affecting reading, computer use, contact lens wear or other everyday activities.

Seek prompt professional assessment if eye symptoms include significant pain, marked redness, strong sensitivity to light or a noticeable reduction in vision. These symptoms should not automatically be attributed to dry eyes because they can occur with other eye conditions requiring more urgent attention.

Quick Questions:

Why are my eyes dry all the time?

Persistent dry eyes can result from reduced tear production, excessive tear evaporation or an imbalance in the tear film. Age, eyelid gland dysfunction, medications, health conditions, contact lenses and environmental factors can all contribute.

Why do my eyes water if they are dry?

Dryness can irritate the surface of the eye and trigger reflex tear production. This can make the eyes water excessively, but these tears may evaporate quickly or lack the composition needed to provide effective long-lasting lubrication.

Can too much screen time cause dry eyes?

Screen use can contribute to dry-eye symptoms because people tend to blink less frequently while concentrating on digital displays. Reduced blinking allows the tear film to evaporate more quickly.

Can dry eyes affect vision?

Yes. The tear film creates a smooth surface that helps the eye focus light clearly. When it becomes unstable, vision can temporarily appear blurred or fluctuate, sometimes improving after blinking. Persistent or significant changes in vision should always be professionally assessed.