Why do my eyes burn? Why are my eyes always red? Why do they feel sandy or gritty? Why do they constantly tear or water? These are questions that an optometrist hears from patients every day and are symptoms consistent with dry eye syndrome. This bothersome eye disorder can be widespread in the high altitude and low humidity environment that we live in. Age, gender, work environment, medications, previous eye surgery and contact lens wear can all contribute to the symptoms that point to this syndrome.Middle-aged women are particularly at risk for developing dry eye; this is especially true for menopausal women due to hormonal changes. Heating vents, air conditioning vents and ceiling fans can also be a cause for dry eye symptoms. The same problems can persist for people who spend significant time working on computers. Prolonged computer use leads to decreased eye blinking, which in turn can cause eye dryness.Many medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, anti-psychotics, hormone replacement therapy and/or oral contraceptives can contribute to dry eyes. People who have had LASIK or other corrective eye surgeries are also more prone to eye dryness.Most of these causes can be complicated when contact lenses are added to the equation. Poorly fitting contact lenses, improper contact lens material, inadequate care and the wrong cleaning solution can contribute to the feeling of dryness while wearing the contact lenses.All of the previously stated factors can contribute to lack of tear production, lack of tear quality or both. This is dry eye syndrome. An optometrist can perform a test to determine both tear production and tear quality. The most important thing is that once diagnosed, dry eye syndrome can often be treated with doctor recommended, over-the-counter eye lubricants in mild cases; prescription eye drops in mild to moderate cases; and nutritional supplements and minor in-office procedures for moderate to severe cases.If you find yourself saying, “What is wrong with my eyes?” you may be experiencing dry eye syndrome. If so, you should contact an experienced optometrist for a dry eye evaluation.Dr. Tyson D. Reuter, O.D.OptometristAlpine Vision7642 McLaughlin RoadFalcon, CO 80831719-495-6611
