Dry Eyes at Night: The Possible Causes and Treatment Options October 28 2022
Dry eyes are a common problem, especially at night. There are many possible causes of dry eyes, including environmental factors, medications, and underlying health conditions. Fortunately, there are also many ways to soothe dry eyes and help prevent them from happening in the first place.
Possible Causes of Dry Eyes at Night
There are many possible causes of dry eyes at night. Some of the most common include:
1. Environmental Factors
Dry, windy, or dusty environments can cause dry eyes. This is especially true if you live in an area with high altitudes or low humidity levels.
2. Medications
Certain medications can cause dry eyes as a side effect. These include antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants.
3. Underlying Health Conditions
Dry eyes can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes, or thyroid problems.
4. Aging
As you age, your eyes produce fewer tears. This can lead to dry eyes, especially at night.
5. Menopause
Menopause can also cause dry eyes. This is due to hormonal changes that occur during this time.
6. Pregnancy
Pregnancy can cause dry eyes due to hormonal changes. This is especially true in the first trimester.
7. Contact Lenses
Wearing contact lenses can also cause dry eyes. This is because they can block the tear ducts and prevent tears from properly lubricating the eyes.
8. Computer Use
If you spend a lot of time staring at a computer screen, you may also experience dry eyes. This is because you blink less when you are looking at a screen, which can lead to dryness.
How to Soothe Dry Eyes at Night
If you suffer from dry eyes, you may find that your symptoms are worse at night. This is because the eyes are more likely to dry out when you are lying down.
Here are some ways to soothe dry eyes at night:
1. Use a Humidifier
If your home is dry, it can make your dry eyes worse. To help moisten the air in your home, you can use a humidifier.
2. Apply a Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress to your eyes can help to soothe them. To do this, soak a clean cloth in warm water and apply it to your eyes for a few minutes.
3. Avoid Staring at screens
If you spend a lot of time looking at screens, it can make your dry eyes worse. To help reduce your symptoms, try to avoid staring at screens for long periods of time.
4. Blink More
If you find that you are not blinking as often as you should, it can lead to dry eyes. To help reduce your symptoms, try to blink more often.
5. Use Artificial Tears
If your eyes are feeling dry, you can use artificial tears to help lubricate them. These can be bought over the counter at most pharmacies.
6. Wear Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses can help to protect your eyes from the wind and the sun. This can help to reduce your symptoms.
7. See Your Doctor
If your symptoms are severe, you may need to see your doctor. They may prescribe medication to help reduce your symptoms.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why you might have dry eyes at night. If you have dry eyes during the day, it's likely that your symptoms will worsen at night. Dry eyes at night can be caused by things like allergies, medications, and even your sleep position.
There are a few things you can do to soothe your dry eyes at night. Try using a humidifier in your bedroom, using artificial tears, and avoiding things that can make your dry eyes worse. If your dry eyes are severe, you may need to see a doctor.
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