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What Causes Dry Eyes & How to Treat Them?

2025-08-28

Causes and treatment of dry eyes

What causes dry eyes and how to treat them

What Are Dry Eyes?

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for lubricating the eye, protecting against infection, and maintaining clear vision. A disruption in tear quantity or quality can lead to irritation, discomfort, and blurred vision.

👉 Learn more from Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

Common Causes of Dry Eyes in Singapore

Several factors contribute to dry eyes, especially in urban environments like Singapore:

  • Prolonged screen time: Reduces blink rate, leading to tear evaporation
  • Air-conditioned environments: Common in offices and homes, these dry out the eyes
  • Contact lens wear: Can interfere with tear film stability
  • Ageing: Tear production naturally decreases with age
  • Hormonal changes: Especially in postmenopausal women
  • Medical conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome
  • Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs
  • Dietary deficiencies: Low intake of Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin A

👉 Detailed breakdown from HealthHub Singapore

Symptoms to Watch For

Dry eyes can manifest in subtle or disruptive ways:

  • Gritty or sandy sensation
  • Redness and irritation
  • Blurred or fluctuating vision
  • Excessive tearing (a reflex response)
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Tired or heavy eyelids

If these symptoms persist, it’s time to consult an eye specialist.

How to Treat Dry Eyes

Treatment depends on severity and underlying cause. At Eagle Eye Centre, we offer a range of solutions:

Lifestyle Adjustments

  • Take regular screen breaks (20-20-20 rule)
  • Use humidifiers in dry environments
  • Reduce contact lens wear
  • Eat Omega-3-rich foods like salmon and walnuts

Over-the-Counter Lubricants

  • Artificial tears (preservative-free for frequent use)
  • Lubricating eye ointments for nighttime relief

Advanced Clinical Treatments

  • Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops
  • Punctal plugs to retain tears
  • Meibomian gland therapy for oil layer dysfunction
  • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy for chronic cases
Don’t Ignore the Signs

Dry eyes are more than a nuisance—they’re a signal that your eyes need attention. Book a consultation at Eagle Eye Centre today and take the first step toward lasting relief.

Why Choose Eagle Eye Centre? Our team of experienced ophthalmologists uses advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the cause of your dry eyes and tailor a treatment plan that works for your lifestyle. Whether you need simple relief or long-term management, we’re here to help you see comfortably and clearly.