Monnett Eye & Optical Center

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye. Its consequences range from subtle but constant irritation to ocular inflammation of the anterior (front) tissues of the eye.

In dry eye syndrome, the lacrimal gland or associated glands near the eye don't produce enough tears, or the tears have a chemical composition that causes them to evaporate too quickly.

Dry eye syndrome has several causes. It occurs as a part of the natural aging process, especially during menopause; as a side effect of many medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, certain blood pressure medicines, Parkinson's medications and birth control pills; or because you live in a dry, dusty or windy climate.

Symptoms of dry eye:

• Dry, sticky eyes
• A feeling of something foreign in your eye
• Eyes that often itch and burn
• Vision that becomes blurred after periods of reading, watching TV, or using a computer
• Red, irritated eyes

Common Causes of Dry Eye:
Age: It occurs as a part of the natural aging process, especially during menopause; as a side effect of many medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, certain blood pressure medicines, Parkinson's medications and birth control pills; or because you live in a dry, dusty or windy climate.
Artificial Heating & Cooling: If your home or office has air conditioning or a dry heating system, that too can dry out your eyes. Another cause is insufficient blinking, such as when you're staring at a computer screen all day.
Contact Lens Use:Long-term contact lens wear is another cause; in fact, dry eyes are the most common complaint among contact lens wearers.

You can help prevent dry eye by:

• protecting your eyes from sun with wrap-around sunglasses
• avoiding irritants such as smoke and dust
• avoiding air conditioners that dry the air
• avoiding hair dryers
• using a humidifier at home
• increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids
• using artificial tears or lubricant regularly

Artificial tears and lubricants are available as eye drops, gels and ointments. Eye drops are ideal for regular use during the day to help with dry eye symptoms. They can be used as often as you need them.

Ointments or gels may be used at night, or for severe daytime symptoms. Some people can be allergic to the preservative used in eye drops; if so, preservative-free preparations are available, please ask a member of our staff for more information.

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