What causes dry eyes and how to treat it

　　In general, dry eyes may be caused by factors such as excessive eye use, dry environments, visual fatigue, dry eye syndrome, or Sjögren's syndrome. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:

　　1. Excessive eye use: Staring at electronic screens for prolonged periods reduces blinking frequency to fewer than five times per minute, preventing tears from evenly covering the ocular surface. To prevent this, take a 5-minute break every 30 minutes of screen time to look into the distance, consciously increase blinking frequency, and adjust your phone screen to eye level or slightly lower to reduce the exposed surface area of the eyeball.

　　2. Dry environment: Prolonged exposure to air-conditioned rooms, heated rooms, or windy and sandy environments where humidity falls below 30% accelerates tear evaporation. Use a humidifier indoors to maintain humidity between 40% and 60%, and wear windproof and sandproof goggles when outdoors to avoid direct exposure of the eyes to strong winds.

　　3. Visual fatigue: Continuous tension in the eye muscles slows blood circulation and reduces tear gland secretion, often accompanied by eye soreness and blurred vision. Patients should use medications such as compound methionine and vitamin B12 eye drops, naphazoline-pheniramine eye drops, or sodium hyaluronate eye drops as directed by a physician. Additionally, apply warm compresses with a moist towel over the eyes for 10 minutes each morning and evening.

　　4. Dry eye syndrome: Insufficient tear production or shortened tear film breakup time leads to inadequate lubrication and protection of the ocular surface, resulting in symptoms such as foreign body sensation and burning. Treatments include hypromellose eye drops, polyethylene glycol eye drops, or carboxymethylcellulose sodium eye drops, used under medical supervision. Avoid frequent use of eye drops containing preservatives.

　　5. Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that attacks the tear glands, causing a sharp reduction in tear production, often accompanied by symptoms like dry mouth and joint pain. Treatment includes cyclosporine eye drops, tacrolimus eye drops, or hydroxychloroquine tablets as prescribed. In severe cases, punctal plug insertion may be performed to block the tear ducts and reduce tear drainage.

　　In daily life, consume more foods rich in vitamin A—such as carrots and egg yolks—and foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids—such as deep-sea fish. Ensure 7–8 hours of sleep per day. Avoid rubbing the eyes, choose non-irritating eye care products, reduce the frequency of eye makeup, and promote overall eye health through comprehensive care.