Dry eyes can be an uncomfortable condition for many, causing a range of symptoms including redness, itchiness, fatigue, and blurry vision. It is important to understand the causes of dry eyes in order to properly address this condition. In this blog, we will explore the various factors that can lead to dry eyes, including aging, hormonal changes, environmental conditions, prolonged use of digital devices, and certain medical conditions or medications. Read on to learn more about how to identify the cause of dry eyes and what you can do to find relief.
AGING
Aging can cause dry eyes due to a decrease in tear production and quality. As we age, our tear glands produce fewer tears, and the composition of the tears may also change, leading to an increase in evaporation and a decrease in the lubricating properties of the tears. Dry eye symptoms can also be caused by health problems that are common in older people, such as arthritis or diabetes.
HORMONAL CHANGES
Hormonal changes, particularly in women, can cause dry eyes. Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during menopause or pregnancy, can affect the composition of the tears and decrease tear production. Menopause can lead to a decrease in hormone production, including estrogen, which can affect the meibomian glands in the eyelids that secrete oil onto the surface of the eye to prevent tear evaporation. This can lead to evaporative dry eye. Additionally, fluctuations in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle can also cause temporary changes in tear production and quality, leading to dry eye symptoms.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Environmental conditions that can lead to dry eyes include exposure to dry, windy or dusty conditions, high altitude, air conditioning or heating, and exposure to cigarette smoke or other pollutants. These conditions can cause the tears to evaporate more quickly and lead to symptoms of dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Additionally, exposure to low humidity conditions, such as those found on airplanes, can also contribute to dry eye symptoms.
DIGITAL DEVICES
Prolonged use of digital devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, can cause dry eyes in several ways. When we use electronic devices, we tend to blink less frequently, which can lead to a decrease in tear production and an increase in tear evaporation. In addition, the blue light emitted by these devices can also cause eye strain and fatigue, which can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Studies have shown that people who spend extended periods of time using digital devices are more likely to experience dry eye symptoms than those who do not.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS & MEDICATIONS
Medical conditions that can cause dry eyes include autoimmune disorders such as Sjogren’s syndrome, which affects the body’s ability to produce moisture, and rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder. Other conditions that can contribute to dry eye symptoms include diabetes, thyroid disorders, rosacea, and allergies. Additionally, certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can also cause or worsen dry eye symptoms.
HYPOCHLOROUS ACID
HOCl, or Hypochlorous Acid, can potentially help treat and prevent dry eye by acting as a natural, gentle, and effective antimicrobial that can reduce the risk of eye infections and inflammation that can worsen dry eye symptoms. HOCl is a substance that is naturally produced by the human body’s immune system and has been found to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
ACUICYN™
Acuicyn™ is an antimicrobial prescription or physician dispensed hypochlorous acid (HOCl) based eyelid and eyelash cleanser that is scientifically proven to eradicate the microorganisms that cause discomfort.
As a result, Acuicyn™ Antimicrobial Eyelid & Eyelash Hygiene with Performance Stabilized HOCl helps reduce microbial load and inflammation of the eye, promoting healing and improving eye comfort and vision. HOCl, the active ingredient in Acuicyn™, has been shown to have several potential benefits for ocular health, one of which is the stabilization of the tear film. A study published by S. Koh, C.I. Tung, and J.V. Aquavella (2012) in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics evaluated the effect of HOCl eye drops on the tear film in patients with mild to moderate dry eye disease. The study found that HOCl eye drops improved tear film stability by increasing its viscosity, enhancing its lubricating properties, and reducing tear evaporation rate. Fast enough to provide near instant relief, and gentle enough to use as often as needed for all ages and skin types, Acuicyn™ provides fast, reliable, and safe relief for dry eyes.
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