Does Aging Increase Your Risk of Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a common and often uncomfortable eye condition that affects millions of people every year. But did you know that your risk of developing dry eye increases as you get older? At Primary Vision Care, we’re committed to helping you understand why this happens, how aging plays a role, and what you can do to maintain healthy, comfortable eyes at every stage of life.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inadequate moisture on the eye’s surface. Tears play a crucial role in keeping your eyes smooth, clear, and well-lubricated. When there isn’t enough moisture, you may experience uncomfortable symptoms such as burning or stinging sensations, a gritty feeling as if something is in your eye, redness, blurred vision, and increased sensitivity to light.
 

How Aging Contributes to Dry Eye

As we age, our bodies naturally undergo changes that can affect tear production and increase the risk of developing dry eye. One common change is reduced tear production. Over time, the lacrimal glands tend to become less efficient, resulting in decreased tear volume and less moisture for the eyes.
 

In addition to producing fewer tears, the composition of our tears can also change with age. The delicate balance of oils, water, and mucus that make up healthy tears may shift, causing them to be less effective at protecting and nourishing the surface of the eye.
 

Hormonal changes, particularly in women after menopause, are another factor that can contribute to dry eye. Shifts in hormone levels can significantly impact tear production, making postmenopausal women more prone to experiencing the symptoms of dry eye.
 

Other Risk Factors for Dry Eye

While aging is a significant risk factor, several other factors can also contribute to dry eye, such as:

• Certain medications (antihistamines, blood pressure drugs, antidepressants)

• Environmental conditions (wind, dry air, smoke)

• Long hours of screen use or reading

• Wearing contact lenses

• Medical conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders

• Eye surgeries, including LASIK
   

When to Seek Professional Treatment

Occasional dry or tired eyes are common, but persistent discomfort should never be ignored. If you experience ongoing dryness, burning, redness, or blurred vision, it’s important to seek professional help. Chronic dry eye can lead to complications such as infections or damage to the eye surface if left untreated. Our optometrists can diagnose the underlying cause of your dry eye and recommend personalized treatment options to help restore your comfort and eye health.
 

Don’t Let Dry Eye Affect Your Quality of Life

Aging is a natural part of life, but you don’t have to accept dry, uncomfortable eyes as inevitable. By understanding the connection between aging and dry eye and knowing when to seek help, you can enjoy more comfortable vision at any age.
 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye, schedule a consultation with Primary Vision Care for personalized treatment options. Visit our office in Newark, Waynesville, Lancaster, Mount Vernon, or Wilmington, Ohio. Call (740) 299-1155, (513) 897-2211, (740) 654-9909, (740) 393-6010, or (937) 382-4933 to book an appointment today.