What causes eye stones?

Eye stones may be caused by factors such as poor eye hygiene, metabolic abnormalities, conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome, and dacryocystitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Poor eye hygiene: Using unclean towels or failing to clean the eyes regularly can easily lead to the accumulation of ocular metabolic byproducts, promoting the formation of eye stones. It is advised to maintain good eye hygiene habits, clean the eyes regularly, and avoid using contaminated items that come into contact with the eyes.

2. Metabolic abnormalities: Factors such as diet and genetics may disrupt the body’s metabolism of calcium and lipids. These imbalanced metabolites tend to deposit in the eyes and form stones. In most cases, there are no specific symptoms, but severe cases may involve eye discomfort. It is recommended to increase physical exercise and improve overall health to help prevent metabolic imbalances of calcium and lipids.

3. Conjunctivitis: This may be related to bacterial infections or allergies. When the eyes are inflamed, excessive mucus and protein secretions from conjunctival cells may accumulate on the surface of the conjunctiva and form stones. Symptoms may also include dryness and increased eye discharge. It is recommended to use medications such as ganciclovir eye drops, ofloxacin eye drops, or erythromycin tablets as prescribed by a physician.

4. Dry eye syndrome: This may be associated with insufficient tear production or excessive evaporation. The condition can lead to a dry ocular surface, causing degeneration and overgrowth of conjunctival epithelial cells, which may contribute to stone formation. Additional symptoms may include eye fatigue and a foreign body sensation. It is recommended to use medications such as sodium hyaluronate eye drops, Jinzhen eye drops, or fluorometholone eye drops as directed by a doctor.

5. Dacryocystitis: This may result from bacterial infection or blockage of the tear drainage system. Chronic inflammation can stimulate excessive growth of conjunctival epithelial cells, leading to stone formation. Symptoms may also include excessive tearing and eye discomfort. It is recommended to use medications such as minocycline hydrochloride capsules, methylprednisolone eye drops, or cefuroxime axetil tablets as prescribed.

In daily life, it is important to keep the eyes clean at all times, avoid rubbing the eyes, and reduce bacterial growth. Additionally, ensure adequate rest to prevent eye strain from prolonged visual tasks, and maintain a balanced diet. Consuming foods rich in vitamins—such as oranges, blueberries, and celery—is beneficial for eye health. If symptoms of eye stones worsen, prompt medical consultation is advised.