Most Common Causes of Dry Eye

Our Clarksville Optometry Team Discusses Causes of Dry Eye

Dryness, itchiness, and redness aren't the only symptoms of dry eye­. This condition also causes increased light sensitivity, watery discharge, and blurry vision. At Sites Vision Clinic in Clarksville, TN, our optometry team helps patients discover the true cause of their dry eye symptoms, so they can get the relief that lasts.

Allergies

Allergies to pet dander, mold, dust, pollen, and even cosmetics or medications can lead to dry eye symptoms. Allergies trigger the release of an immune molecule called histamine, which causes redness, itchiness, and related symptoms.

Smoke

Smoking or being around someone who smokes can easily lead to dry eyes. Car exhaust and environmental pollution can also contribute to your symptoms.

Improper Contact Lens Use

Wearing contacts for too long or improperly cleaning and handling them can cause dry eyes and increase your risk of infection.

Computer Use

You replenish your protective tear film by blinking. When you use a computer, you blink less frequently, which could cause dry eyes.

Weather

Windy weather and cold dry air can disrupt the protective film of tears over your eyes.

Underlying Health Conditions

Sometimes, dry eyes are a symptom of an underlying health condition, including autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or a condition called Meibomian gland dysfunction, which causes tears to evaporate too quickly.

Dry Eye Treatment from Our Clarksville Optometrist

Our Clarksville optometrist team can help you get to the bottom of your discomfort by performing a thorough medical history and eye exam and providing personalized dry eye treatment. We often recommend:

  • Medicated eye drops to soothe inflammation and improve moisture
  • Patient education about at-home symptom relief, avoidance of allergy triggers, and contact lens management
  • Prescription eyeglasses, in case dry eye symptoms flare up and make wearing contact lenses intolerable

We also offer support and care for additional treatment options, such as punctual plugs.

Looking for Effective Dry Eye Treatment?

If you live near Clarksville and Elkton, TN, and are looking for dry eye relief, contact Sites Vision Clinic at (931)-614-0028 to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor today.

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Monday

7:30 am - 12:00 pm

1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Tuesday

7:30 am - 12:00 pm

1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Wednesday

7:30 am - 12:00 pm

1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Thursday

7:30 am - 12:00 pm

1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Friday

7:30 am - 12:00 pm

Saturday

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Sunday

Closed

Monday
7:30 am - 12:00 pm 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
7:30 am - 12:00 pm 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
7:30 am - 12:00 pm 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Thursday
7:30 am - 12:00 pm 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Friday
7:30 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed