# What are the main causes of dry eye? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/main-causes-of-dry-eye Language: en Category: ophthalmology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:53.152Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:53.152Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/main-causes-of-dry-eye Dry eye is a condition that occurs when the eye does not produce enough tears, or when the tears are of poor quality and cannot keep the surface of the eye consistently moist [\[1\]](). Tears play a pivotal role in protecting and cleaning the eye with every blink, and are essential for maintaining clear and comfortable vision [\[1\]](). To understand why some people develop this condition, one must look at the complex balance of the eye's tear system. ## How a tear system dysfunction affects the eye Lacrimal glands produce tears that travel through tiny ducts to reach the surface of the eye, providing continuous hydration and protection [\[1\]](). When this system is disrupted, whether due to low production or rapid tear evaporation, symptoms of dryness appear [\[1\]](). To learn more about how this system works and what happens when the ducts are obstructed, you can view [Tear problems: from dry eye to blocked tear ducts (Arabic)](). ## Environmental and lifestyle factors Our surrounding conditions play a major role in how quickly tears evaporate and the severity of dryness. These factors include: - Continuous exposure to dry air, strong winds, or smoke, which increases tear evaporation from the eye surface. - Intensive use of screens and digital devices, as intense focus reduces the blink rate, preventing tears from being evenly distributed. - Aging, which is often associated with a natural decline in the efficiency of the glands responsible for tear production. ## Medical and physiological causes Dry eye can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that requires specialized attention. Some known conditions include: - Systemic diseases: Certain conditions like Sjögren's syndrome are directly linked to dry eye, in addition to other diseases that may affect tissues surrounding the eye [\[1\]](). - Side effects of medications: Some treatments, including antihistamines, decongestants, and certain psychiatric medications, can reduce tear secretion. - Eyelid problems: Any inflammation or dysfunction in the eyelids can hinder proper tear distribution or affect their quality, leading to dryness of the eye's front surface. ## When to see a doctor If you experience persistent pain, burning, or a foreign body sensation in the eye that does not resolve with simple hydration, there may be a medical cause that requires diagnosis [\[1\]](). You should also be attentive if there is severe redness, abnormal discharge, or changes in vision, as these signs may indicate an infection or a problem with the tear drainage system, such as a blocked tear duct, which requires careful assessment by an ophthalmologist [\[1\]](), [\[3\]](). Do not rely on self-treatment alone if symptoms persist; an accurate diagnosis is the first step in determining the appropriate treatment to ensure long-term protection of the eye surface [\[3\]](). ## Medical references - [Tears]() - [Blocked tear duct]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/main-causes-of-dry-eye#answer