How Can Lifestyle Choices Contribute to Chronic Dry Eye?

Chronic dry eye is a condition that affects millions of people, often interfering with their daily comfort and quality of life. While age and certain medical conditions can contribute to dry eye, many people are surprised to learn that their lifestyle choices can play a significant role in both causing and worsening symptoms.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears produced are of poor quality and evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping the surface of your eyes smooth, clear, and free from irritation. Without proper lubrication, you may experience symptoms such as:

• Stinging or burning sensations

• Redness

• Blurred vision

• A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes

• Sensitivity to light

• Eye fatigue

While occasional dryness can be due to environmental factors, chronic dry eye requires attention to avoid long-term damage or discomfort.

Everyday Habits That May Be Drying Out Your Eyes

Several common lifestyle habits can contribute to the onset or progression of chronic dry eye:

• Screen Time and Digital Device Use: Staring at screens for extended periods can drastically reduce your blink rate. Blinking is vital for spreading tears across the surface of your eyes. Fewer blinks mean less moisture, which can lead to dryness and irritation.

• Contact Lens Wear: Wearing contact lenses for extended hours can disrupt the tear film and create friction on the eye’s surface. Improper lens hygiene or using lenses not suited for dry eyes can worsen the condition.

• Environmental Exposure: Living or working in dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments can cause tears to evaporate more quickly. Heating systems, fans, and even pollution can strip moisture from your eyes.

• Poor Nutrition and Dehydration: Diets low in omega-3 fatty acids or lacking hydration can impact tear production. Omega-3s support the oily layer of the tear film, which helps reduce tear evaporation.

• Smoking and Alcohol Use: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the eyes and reduce tear production. These substances can also negatively impact overall eye health.

• Lack of Sleep: Your eyes depend on rest to regenerate and stay lubricated. Sleep deprivation can lead to inflammation and dryness.

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If you’re experiencing persistent dry eye symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter drops or changes in your routine, it’s time to schedule an eye exam. At Eyes of East Sacramento, we conduct comprehensive evaluations to determine the root cause of your dry eye and offer personalized treatment plans, ranging from prescription drops to in-office therapies.

Find the Right Dry Eye Treatment at Eyes of East Sacramento

Chronic dry eye can be frustrating, but recognizing how your lifestyle may be contributing to the problem is a key step toward relief. By adjusting your screen habits, improving your diet, and protecting your eyes from harsh environments, you can reduce your risk and improve your comfort. If symptoms persist, professional care is essential for long-term eye health.

If dry, irritated eyes are disrupting your life, schedule a dry eye evaluation at Eyes of East Sacramento and get the relief you deserve. Contact our office in Sacramento, California, by calling (916) 915-0500 to book an appointment today.