Does Dry Eye Affect People of All Ages, or Just Older Adults?

Dry eye is often thought of as a condition that affects older adults, but it can impact people of all ages. From young adults spending hours on screens to individuals wearing contact lenses, dry eye is a growing concern that deserves attention. Understanding the causes, risk factors, and available treatments can help you manage symptoms and protect your long-term eye health.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes either do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to irritation, a gritty or burning sensation, redness, blurred vision, and sometimes even excessive tearing as the eyes try to compensate for dryness. Left untreated, dry eye can lead to inflammation and damage to the surface of the eye, impacting vision and comfort.
 

Who Is at Risk for Dry Eye?

While the likelihood of developing dry eye increases with age due to hormonal changes and reduced tear production, people of all ages can experience this condition. Factors that contribute to dry eye include:

• Prolonged screen time: Younger adults are increasingly developing dry eye due to extended use of computers, tablets, and smartphones. Staring at screens reduces blink rate, causing faster tear evaporation.

• Contact lens wear: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can contribute to dryness and discomfort, especially without proper lens hygiene or fit.

• Environmental conditions: Windy, dry climates or air-conditioned environments can affect tear stability.

• Certain medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and some birth control pills may reduce tear production.

• Medical conditions: Autoimmune diseases, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes, can lead to chronic dry eye.
   

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If you notice persistent eye discomfort, fluctuating vision, or increased sensitivity to light, it’s time to consult your eye doctor. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for long-term relief. Your optometrist will use diagnostic tools to assess tear quantity and quality and recommend tailored treatment options.
 

At Envision Eye Care, we offer advanced treatments including:

• LipiFlow: A safe and effective in-office procedure that clears blocked meibomian glands to restore natural tear flow.

• Nutritional supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients may help improve tear production and eye surface health.

• Contact lens evaluation: We help patients find the right type of lens that supports moisture retention and comfort.

• Prescription eye drops: Medications can reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
   

Find Dry Eye Relief at Envision Eye Care

Dry eye is not just a concern for older adults. With screen time and environmental factors playing a larger role than ever before, people of all ages can be affected. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, early evaluation and treatment can protect your vision and improve your quality of life.
 

Schedule a consultation with Envision Eye Care to find lasting relief from dry eye symptoms and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision. Call our Virginia offices in Marion at (276) 262-6546, Cedar Bluff at (276) 262-6668, or Abingdon at (276) 566-5478. For our Tennessee offices, call Bristol at (423) 427-2917 or Gray at (423) 264-2544 to book your appointment today.