What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome? (DES)

DES has many causes, which explains why millions are affected. The most common causes include:

• The Aging Process - Tear flow normally decreases with age. In fact, approximately 75% of individuals over the age of 65 suffer from DES symptoms.
• Contact Lens Wear - Contact lens wear can dramatically increase tear evaporation, causing discomfort, infection, and/or increase protein deposits. Research shows that DES is the leading cause of contact lens intolerance.
• Hormonal Changes in Women - Various hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptives and menopause can contribute to DES.
• Environmental Factors - People who are exposed to smoke, air pollution, high altitude, sunny, windy, cold or dry air conditions are at risk for DES.
• Side Effects of Disease/Medications - There are several diseases and medications which can lower your ability to produce tears. Be sure to give your doctor a complete medical history.

What Treatments Are Available?

Depending on the intensity of the condition, treatment may be as simple as using artificial tears a few times a day. In more persistent cases, however, a simple non-surgical procedure is available that provides long-term relief of DES through the use of tiny plugs called "punctal occluders".

Contact us today for more infomation about solutions for dry eyes.