Dry eye is a condition when eyes are not adequately lubricated. This may develop a constant burning sensation. In some cases, the eyes become sensitive to light and the vision becomes blurred. This condition arises when the tear formation is not enough to lubricate the eye. This can be quite uncomfortable that may aggravate in certain situations like bike riding, on an airplane or looking at the screen of a computer for long.

The interruption of the optimum tear formation can depend on several factors. Tears are a mixture of fatty oils, mucus, and water. This secretion helps to smoothen and clear the surface of the eye and also contains compounds that prevent infection. Here are the common causes of dry eyes:

1. Inadequate tear production

This problem is primarily caused when the eyes are unable to secrete natural tears. This can be triggered by several factors like aging, damage to tear gland or laser surgery of the eye. Tear gland may get damaged due to exposure to radiation and inflammation. After the age of 50, the natural pathway of production of tears gets diminished.

2. Certain medications

Many drugs can also reduce the secretion of tears. These medications are often used for treating other diseases, such as diuretics, beta blocker medication, antihistamines to treat allergy, sleeping pills, and heartburn medication. Certain drugs that are targeted to treat depression and anxiety can cause dry eyes as a side effect. The problems of chronic dried eyes can be assisted with the help of eye drops.

3. Other health conditions

Other chronic diseases (i.e., diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, thyroid disorder, and Sjogren’s syndrome) can cause dry eyes. Condition that cause a deficiency of vitamin A or omega-3 acids can also cause dry eyes. Wearing contact lenses is another problem that is associated with eye dryness.

4. Tear composition imbalance

The tear is made up of water, oil, and mucus, which are secreted and deposited as distinct three layers. The film of oil is produced by the meibomian gland that is present on the eyelid edge. If this gland gets clogged the oil layer is not produced.

5. Clogged tear glands

The clogging of the meibomian glands, or tear glands, can be due to blepharitis, skin disorder or rosacea. If any of the three layers gets damaged the composition of the tear is altered. This change in composition can lead to red eyes.