Do you ever suffer from dry, irritated eyes that just won’t seem to go away even after using eye drops? You’re not alone. Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects many people in Portland, Maine. This condition occurs when your eyes aren’t producing enough tears or if your tears evaporate too quickly. Understanding the underlying causes of dry eye can help you better manage and treat it. In today’s blog post, we will take a look at some common causes of dry eyes in the Portland area and share tips for finding relief.
Aging
Aging is a natural part of life, but it can also bring about changes in our bodies that contribute to dry eye syndrome. As we age, our bodies produce fewer tears, leading to dryness and irritation in our eyes. To prevent this issue, you can try using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable. If your symptoms persist despite self-care, schedule an appointment with our dry eye specialist in Portland, Maine for further evaluation.
Environmental factors
Living in Portland, Maine means being exposed to different weather conditions throughout the year. Dry air, wind, and indoor heating or air conditioning can make your tears evaporate faster, leading to dry eyes. Make sure to always wear goggles or sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from the elements. When spending time indoors, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air and prevent your eyes from drying out.
Certain medications
Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and hormone replacement therapy drugs, can cause dry eye as a side effect. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding your medication and its potential impact on your eye health. They may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend additional treatments to help you find relief.
Medical conditions
Medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases (like Sjogren’s syndrome), rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can also increase your risk of developing dry eye syndrome. These conditions can affect the quality and quantity of tears produced by your eyes. If you have an underlying medical condition that is contributing to your symptoms, it’s essential to work with your healthcare provider to manage both the underlying condition and the associated dryness.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can also lead to dry eye syndrome for some individuals. If you’re dealing with this issue, ask your eye doctor about ways you can find relief.
Lifestyle habits
Factors like poor diet, dehydration, lack of sleep, and inadequate blinking (such as when staring at screens for extended periods) can affect tear production and lead to dry eyes. Making some lifestyle changes such as staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, getting enough sleep, and taking breaks from screen time can help improve overall eye health.
Living with dry eye syndrome can be uncomfortable and frustrating but knowing the potential causes can help you better manage and find relief for this condition. If you’re struggling with chronic dryness in Portland, Maine, reach out to Giles Eye Care for expert treatment options personalized to your needs. Don’t let dry eyes interfere with your daily life any longer—schedule an appointment with us today!