Dry Eye Causes & Cures

Your eyes normally produce their own lubrication, which, according to the Mayo Clinic, is made up of water, fatty oils, proteins, electrolytes, and substances to fight bacteria and regulate various cell processes. If the eyes do not produce enough tears you will experience dry eyes, which can make good vision difficult. Regardless of the cause of dry eyes, the condition is usually treatable.

Tears

• Use artificial tears to help treat dry eyes. Artificial tears mimic real tears so that you can replace the moisture in the eyes without using harsh chemicals. The main cause of dry eyes is insufficient production of tears. This can be due to clogged glands, swollen tissues or partial loss of the mucus layer on the eye. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is a condition in which you experience a reduction in tear production. This frequently occurs as you get older.

Contact Lenses

• Use rewetting drops frequently when you are wearing contact lenses. People who wear contact lenses may experience dry eyes. Rewetting drops add moisture back to the eye and keep the lenses pliable and moist. Regular eye drops should not be used while wearing contacts. If you need to use artificial tears to help with dryness, you will need to remove the contact lenses and reapply them after you have used the rewetting drops.

Sunglasses

• Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes if the dryness is caused by dust, light or wind. Sunglasses can shield the eyes and help keep them from drying out. For best results choose a pair of glasses that fit closely to the eyes and the sides of the face.

Silicone Plugs

• Use silicone plugs if you experience extremely dry eyes that do not respond well to other treatment. Your physician can insert the plugs in his office. These plugs will keep the eye lubricated and are inserted in the tear ducts. Once the plugs are inserted they cannot be felt. Silicone plugs can be temporary or permanent depending on the severity of the dryness.