The surface of the eyes can become dry for many reasons. This creates discomfort and may create the sensation that there is something in the eye(s). It may be caused by environmental factors such as air blowing on the face from a heater or air conditioner or you may be predisposed to developing it.
Anyone can get dry eye, however, it is more common in older people due to changes in the eyelid and tear glands with age. This can lead to increased evaporation of the tears in addition to decreased tear production. Hormonal changes with age and autoimmune conditions can also contribute to dry eye.
Symptoms of dry eye include a painful foreign body sensation, dry or irritated eyes, red eyes, tearing or watery eyes.
Activities that require focus will make dry eye worse. This includes reading or watching TV. Dry air blowing on the face from a heater or air conditioner can also make it worse. Being outside on a windy day will exacerbate dry eye as well.
Treatments include using artificial tears, warm compresses, lids scrubs, medications (Restasis and Xiidra), or punctal plugs.
For every 20 minutes spent focusing on an activity such as the computer or a book, we recommend spending 20 seconds looking off into the distance and relaxing the eyes. We blink half as much when we are focusing. Taking a break will remind us to blink normally for a bit allowing the eyes to stay lubricated.
While reading glasses will not specifically help dry eye, if they are needed, they can reduce eye strain, which can prevent dry eye.
If you are feeling like this, come in for an evaluation and to discuss your treatment options.