Ask the Dry Eye Doctor

The number one cause of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction. The meibomian glands are small oil producing glands that run radially through down upper and lower lids. They are compressed by the lids with each blink and express a small amount of complex lipid that bonds with underlying tear structure to stabilize it and prevent evaporation. Recent research suggests that meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is responsible for or contributes to nearly 90% of all cases of dry eye.

Dry eye can be associated with systemic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, thyroid disease and Sjögren's syndrome, which causes inflammation and drying of mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth. Hormonal changes can also cause dry eye, which sometimes occurs during pregnancy.

In addition to MGD, eye conditions associated with dry eye include allergy, trauma, infection, and chemical burns to the ocular surface. Eye surgeries like LASIK and cataract procedures and cosmetic procedures involving the eye can also lead to dry eye.

Medications can also cause dry eye. These include medications for allergy, hypertension, Parkinson’s syndrome, anxiety, depression and even birth control pills. Both systemic and topical medications can cause dry eye. Note that non-prescription medications like antihistamines can cause significant dry eye.