Tears are an essential part of eye health. They flush out any small particles caught in the eye and maintain moisture. Through certain enzymes they guard the eyes from bacteria that are on occasion present in the eye.
In instances where the eyes have insufficient tears, the results are often discomfort such as perpetual feelings of dryness, stinging, itching or the feeling of something in your eye. Ironically, dry eyes often can cause watery eyes in an attempt to compensate for dryness.

A number of causes can result in dry eyes. One factor is age since it is usually adults that complain of dry eye syndrome, particularly women during menopause. Dry eye syndrome can also result from certain medicines. Climate that is dry, or dry heat or air circulation are also known to cause or worsen dry eyes. Additionally, some diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or others, prolonged computer use which can reduce blinking or contact lens wear can cause dry eyes.

Dry eye symptoms may be relieved by using artificial tears to put moisture back into the eye. Your optometrist can instruct you which eye drops to get and how to use them. If non-prescription drops don't help you may need Rx drops that actually stimulate your eyes to make more tears.

In more serious cases, your eye care professional might suggest Lacrisert, an insert placed inside the eyelid that continually releases moisturizing ingredients at various intervals. Another option could be lacrimal plugs which help keep moisture on the eye by inhibiting tear flow. Some eye doctors will suggest you try nutritional supplements or environmental adjustments to relieve the symptoms as well.

In the majority of cases, dry eyes do not cause any real damage but can be a nuisance. Nevertheless, very serious cases could make you more vulnerable to infection so it is advised to speak to your eye doctor.

It's not necessary to live with dry, itchy, burning eyes - contact your eye doctor right away!