Dry eyes are caused by various reasons that disrupt the healthy tear film. Your tear film has three layers: fatty oils, aqueous fluid, and mucus.

This combination usually keeps the surface of your eyes lubricated, smooth, and clear. Problems with any of these layers can cause dry eyes.†

There are many reasons for tear film dysfunction, including hormone changes, inflamed eyelid glads, or allergies. For some people, the cause of dry eyes is decreased tear production or increased tear evaporation.†

Dry eyes can occur when you cannot produce enough liquid tears or aqueous fluid. Common causes for decreased tear production include:

1. Aging†

2. Certain medical conditions - including thyroid problems or vitamin A deficiency†

3. Certain medications - including antihistamines, decongestants, or hormone replacement therapy†

4. Corneal nerve sensitivity caused by contact lens use or laser eye surgery†

The oil film produced by small glands on the edge of your eyelids (meibomian glands) might become clogged. Blocked meibomian glands are common in people with rosacea or other skin disorders.†

Common causes of increased tear evaporation include:

1. Blinking less often can occur during certain activities such as reading, driving, or working at a computer.†

2. Eyelid problems include the lids turning outward (ectropion) and the lids turning inward (entropion).†

3. Eye allergies†

4. Preservatives in topical eye drops†

5. Wind, smoke, or dry air†

6. Vitamin A deficiency†

1. Those who are over 50 - tear production tends to diminish as you get older

2. Women - a lack of tears is more common in women, especially if they are experiencing hormonal changes due to pregnancy, using birth control pills, or menopause

3. Eating a diet low in Vitamin A - Vitamin A is found in liver and carrots.

4. Those who wear contact lenses.