What Causes Dry Eye:
The Dry Eye Center At Envision Eye Care in Marion, Virginia
The Factors That Can Cause Dry Eyes
This results in the sore, gritty, and painful condition we call Dry Eye Syndrome. Sometimes, basic lifestyle and dietary changes can prevent and even alleviate the symptoms.

Dry Eyes After Eye Surgery

Dry Eyes After Radiation Therapy
Diabetes, Lupus Arthritis, Thyroid Disorders And Dry Eye Syndrome
An overactive thyroid disorder is often a result of Graves’ Disease. This autoimmune disease causes inflammation and swelling in the eyelids (amongst other places in the body) until the eye itself may begin to protrude. This swelling and possible protrusion of the eye reduces the body’s ability to blink effectively. In addition to Dry Eye Syndrome, this can result in endocrine orbitopathy, which includes severe dry eye symptoms such as double-vision, painful pressure, and severe inflammation. When the eye is protruding, severe drying of the cornea can occur.
Medications That Cause Dry Eye
There are many medications out there that can cause dry eye. The causes range anywhere from a reduction in the functionality of the tear ducts to a decrease in the amount of water in the body. This includes:
- Diuretics
- Decongestants
- Antihistamines
- Anticholinergics
- Antidepressants
- Hormones
- Hypertension medication
- Dermatological agents
- Lortab (acetaminophen and hydrocodone)
- Ibuprofen (Advil)
- Always let us know what medications you are taking, whether over-the-counter or prescription. This will help us better assess and treat your Dry Eye Syndrome.
Hormonal Changes That Result In Dry Eye
Sharp changes in your body’s hormone levels will often result in an inflammatory response which can result in dry, irritated eyes. Below are some common reasons why people undergo hormonal changes that often cause Dry Eye Syndrome. You don’t have to suffer from dry eyes in silence. Dr. Susan Keene at the The Dry Eye Center At Envision Eye Care will conduct a full assessment and develop a custom treatment plan that’s right for you.
Birth Control and Dry Eyes
These can cause similar hormonal changes as pregnancy and therefore, can also result in decreased tear production. Less tears means the greater the likelihood that Dry Eye will develop.
If you notice any symptoms such as dryness, itching, burning, or blurriness, you may have Dry Eyes. Fortunately, there are various methods of treating the condition that won’t interfere with your birth control regimen.
Pregnancy and Dry Eye
This is quite common and is caused by the hormonal changes in your body. It is often experienced during the end of the first trimester, when the hormones are most active. These hormones can decrease the amount of natural moisture in the eye, leading to Dry Eye. The condition can last throughout the pregnancy, during postpartum recovery, and while the mother is breastfeeding.
Many pregnant women find that applying a warm cloth to their eyes for a few minutes can give them some relief. Others may be advised to use artificial tears during this time. Switching to eyeglasses can also relieve some of the discomfort caused by wearing contacts during the pregnancy and through the first few weeks of postpartum recovery.
Menopause and Dry Eye
The exact treatment for Dry Eye during the menopausal years is a matter of debate. While many eye care practitioners believe that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can alleviate Dry Eyes during menopause, others believe it may increase it. All agree that managing Dry Eye for women during menopause requires a customized treatment plan. Personal lifestyle, time spent outdoors, medication, and nutrition can all play a role in a woman’s health and can impact Dry Eyes.
Seasonal Changes, Allergies, Environment, And Dry Eye
Anytime the seasons change— particularly spring, summer, and fall— there’s a high amount of allergens in the air. The autoimmune response to these allergens often results in inflammation and dry eyes. Seasonal dry eyes causes a feeling of grittiness or itching in the eye which can be most uncomfortable, and producing fewer tears can potentially lead to infections or more serious problems.
Sunlight, Wind, Humidity, and Dry Eyes
Cold weather usually means windy, harsh conditions outside—and the likelihood that you are spending most of your time indoors, exposed to heating systems on a regular basis. Ironically, it’s this constant exposure to dry, heated air in cold weather which causes inflamed, itchy eyes other symptoms associated with Dry Eye Syndrome.
Sunlight, Wind, Humidity, and Dry Eyes
Cold weather usually means windy, harsh conditions outside—and the likelihood that you are spending most of your time indoors, exposed to heating systems on a regular basis. Ironically, it’s this constant exposure to dry, heated air in cold weather which causes inflamed, itchy eyes other symptoms associated with Dry Eye Syndrome.
Sunlight, Wind, Humidity, and Dry Eyes
Cold weather usually means windy, harsh conditions outside—and the likelihood that you are spending most of your time indoors, exposed to heating systems on a regular basis. Ironically, it’s this constant exposure to dry, heated air in cold weather which causes inflamed, itchy eyes other symptoms associated with Dry Eye Syndrome.
Living With Dry Eye in Marion,Virginia

Reading, Writing and Dry Eye
Computer/Blue Light and Dry Eye
Contact Lenses and Dry Eye
Eye Infections and Dry Eye
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Blepharitis
Diet, Omega 3, and Dry Eye
Stress and Dry Eye
You Don’t Have To Suffer From Dry Eye Anymore!
Regardless of the factors or conditions causing your dry eye, there are usually viable treatment options available. If you are suffering from Dry Eye for any reason, book a Dry Eye Assessment at the in Marion, Virginia for effective treatment. Dr. Susan Keene and our helpful and caring staff will be glad to set up an appointment for you. We will assess the exact nature of your Dry Eye and develop a custom treatment plan so you can get the relief you deserve. Why live with the dry eye a moment longer than you have to? Call us or Book Online today.