A wide variety of common medications,
both prescription and over-the-counter, can cause dry eye
by reducing tear secretion. Be sure to tell your ophthalmologist
(Eye M.D.) the names of all the medications you are taking,
especially if you are using:
Diuretics for high blood pressure;
Beta-blockers for heart or high blood pressure;
Antihistamines for allergies;
Sleeping pills;
Anti-anxiety medications;
Pain relievers.
Since these medications are often necessary, the dry
eye condition may have to be tolerated or treated with
eyedrops called artificial tears.
People with dry eye are often more likely to experience
the side effects of eye medications, including artificial
tears. For example, the preservatives in certain eye
drops and artificial tear preparations can irritate the
eye. These people may need special, preservative-free
artificial tears.
Another cause for dry eye is exposure to a dry, windy
climate, as well as smoke and air conditioning, which
can speed tear evaporation. Avoiding these irritants
can offer dry eye relief. |