Why are my eyes always dry?

Does it seem like your eyes are dry all the time? It is annoying, and uncomfortable – but is it something you should be concerned about? And when should you see a doctor about it? Read on for some information about dry eyes and what you can do about them! 

What causes dry eyes?

Many different things can cause dry eyes. It can be caused by living in a dry climate or dry air caused by a heating or cooling system. Dry eyes can happen when you blink less often, which happens when you are driving or in front of the computer for a long time. You may have dry eyes because of a medication you are taking – medication for depression or high blood pressure is often a culprit. And, some medical conditions can increase the chance you’ll have dry eyes, such as thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, and lupus. 

If you don’t get enough vitamin A, are older than 50, or wear contacts, your risk increases for dry eyes. Women are also at greater risk. 

When should I see a doctor about dry eyes?

There are some things you can try at home to relieve your dry eyes, such as using artificial tears, which you can get over the counter at the drugstore. You can also try these tips: 

• When you are working at the computer, make sure to take breaks often and close your eyes for a couple of minutes.
• Add moisture to the air with a humidifier.
• Stop smoking and avoid being around people who do.
• Make sure to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and the wind.

If you feel like you’ve tried everything and nothing has helped, if your dry eyes prevent you from doing your day-to-day tasks, or if your eyes are constantly in pain or bothering you, it may be time to see your doctor. Seriously dry eyes can cause eye infections, damage the eyes, and affect vision. If you are tired of dealing with dry eyes, contact North Suburban Eye Associates in Massachusetts for help! Call (781) 245-5200 today!