Your tears comfort your eyes in many ways. Water moisturizes; an outer layer of oils lubricates and prevents evaporation; and proteins help protect against infection. Dry eye strikes when your eyes can’t produce enough tears for lubrication or the moisture in your tears evaporates too quickly.

Tears form a three-layer tear film on the eye. Dry eye sufferers often have an incomplete lipid layer, which is the outermost layer of oils that naturally seals in the water underneath. Without this outer layer, too much moisture evaporates. Dry eye causes a variety of symptoms:

About 30 million people suffer from dry eye. More likely among women, it’s a common condition among otherwise healthy people. In addition to being caused by the normal aging process, dry eye can be caused or exacerbated by environmental factors including wind, sun, air conditioning, or smoke; medicines for cold, allergy or other conditions; injuries to or disorders of the eyes or eyelids; and diseases such as Sjogren's syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis.

* If you experience severe and persistent eye pain, light sensitivity, or diminished vision, make an appointment with our office for evaluation and possible treatment.

In addition to being caused by an inability to make enough tears, dry eye can result from a tear film compromised by environmental factors, the side effects of certain medications, a range of diseases including arthritis and diabetes, or structural eye problems.

As always, consult your eyecare professional about conditions that arise that cause your eye discomfort. In the meantime, you can take these steps to help minimize the discomfort of dry eye:

• If you view computer monitors or television screens for long periods at a time, take breaks regularly to alleviate the strain on your eyes.
• When traveling, avoid direct air flows from vents. At home avoid drafts from heating and air-conditioning vents.
• Consider using a humidifier at home.
• Contact lens users: Use a lubricant eye drop such as Soothe prior to inserting your lenses and then again after they are removed.
• Consult your physician about alternatives to any medications that may aggravate your eyes.

Do You Have Dry Eye?

Complete the Dry Eye Quiz and print it out to bring to your next eye doctor's appointment to discuss your condition and treatment options that may be right for you.