What Are the Most Common Causes of Dry Eye?

If you’re experiencing stinging, burning, or a gritty sensation in your eyes, you’re not alone. Dry eye is a common condition that affects many of people in Newnan and it’s something we see regularly at Voyce Eye. Whether your symptoms are mild or chronic, understanding the root cause is essential for finding real, lasting relief.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to inflammation and irritation on the surface of the eye, resulting in discomfort and sometimes even blurred vision. Left untreated, chronic dry eye can interfere with daily activities such as reading, using a computer, or wearing contact lenses.
 

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can be triggered by a variety of factors, and often, it’s a combination of causes. Some of the most common include:

• Age: As we age, tear production naturally decreases. People over the age of 50 are more likely to develop dry eye symptoms.

• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menopause, pregnancy, or while taking birth control, can alter tear composition and lead to dry eyes.

• Environmental Factors: Windy or dry climates, indoor heating or air conditioning, and exposure to smoke or allergens can increase tear evaporation.

• Screen Time: Prolonged use of computers, phones, or other digital devices can reduce blinking frequency, which decreases tear distribution across the eyes.

• Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can lead to dry eye symptoms due to reduced oxygen flow and increased tear evaporation.

• Medications: Certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and decongestants can interfere with normal tear production.

• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders can all contribute to chronic dry eye.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): MGD occurs when the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked or underactive, leading to faster tear evaporation and poor-quality tears.
   

Why a Professional Diagnosis Matters

While over-the-counter eye drops may offer temporary relief, they often don’t address the root of the problem. A professional dry eye evaluation at Voyce Eye is essential for identifying the underlying cause of your symptoms. We use advanced diagnostic technology to assess tear quantity, tear quality, and eyelid gland function.

Once we determine the source of your dry eye, we can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. For patients with evaporative dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction, we offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy—a non-invasive, in-office procedure designed to improve oil flow, reduce inflammation, and restore tear film stability.
 

Take the First Step Toward Dry Eye Relief at Voyce Eye

You don’t have to live with the discomfort of dry eyes. At Voyce Eye, we provide comprehensive evaluations and innovative treatment options to help you see and feel your best.
 

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with Voyce Eye and take the first step toward relief. Visit our office in Newnan, Georgia, or call (678) 818-4400 to book an appointment today.