Dry eyes occur commonly and can be chronic or flare-up under certain circumstances. The condition occurs when the eyes can’t receive the necessary lubrication. This can occur from either a lack of tears or low-quality tears that can’t moisten the eyes effectively. This, unfortunately, can lead to irritation and eventually damage to the surface of the eyes. The symptoms include a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes.
There are several causes of irritated eyes, and these include:

1. Natural aging
While anyone can experience dry eyes, it does become more prevalent with advancing age. Those individuals over 50 can experience dry eyes much more often. This results from the body’s tear production system slowing down and failing to create enough lubrication for the eyes. Unfortunately, there isn’t a preventative measure against this form of dry eye; chronic dry eyes treatment with artificial tears are effective if used regularly.

2. Underlying medical conditions
In some cases, dry eye results from other medical conditions that cause less tear production. For example, Sjogren’s Syndrome is a condition that confuses the white blood cells into attacking the tear glands. This disease typically presents itself in middle age and can include dry mouth and skin, among other symptoms. There are treatments available that include prescription-strength drops or surgery if the drops are unsuccessful.

3. Certain medications
Another cause can be prescription medications that may dry eyes as a side effect. Mucus is the main ingredient in tears, and long term use of antidepressants medications inhibit mucus production. It’s not the most pleasant thing to consider, but mucus is a vital component that keeps the body running smoothly. Other medicines that can harm tear production include diuretics, antihistamines, and pharmaceuticals designed to treat hypertension.

4. Increased tear evaporation
A common situation where irritation can affect the eyes is in windy conditions. The blowing air against the eyes causes the lubrication and tears produced to evaporate too quickly. It doesn’t have to be wind produced outside either. Sitting inside with a fan directly facing the eyes will create a similar effect. For chronic dry eyes treating methods, start by turning the fan away when inside and outside using sunglasses to block the wind.

5. Tear gland damage
Finally, situations of eye injury or radiation therapy can obviously affect the body’s ability to produce lubricating tears. Once the ducts have experienced trauma, the eye may cease to remain lubricated. Also, lacrimal glands responsible for providing nutrients to the cornea and protect the eyes from the elements can stop performing following injury. Something many people don’t realize when undergoing radiation therapy is its ability to create dry eyes as a side effect. Certain chemicals must be present for proper tear production, and chemotherapy can interfere with these chemicals’ levels.