Why Do I Have Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your tear production fails to keep the eye surface adequately lubricated, leading to scratchy or stinging feelings, dryness, discharge, and pain and redness of the eyes. The National Eye Institute lists these common causes of dry eye: medications including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, and medications for anxiety, Parkinson’s disease, and high blood pressure; advancing age; rosacea and blepharitis; windy, smoky, or dry environments; seasonal allergies; and prolonged periods of screen time. National Eye Institute, January 2019