Macular Degeneration Macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness, is triggered by the loss of tissue in the macula, a small area of the retina used for sharp vision. People with this disorder retain their peripheral vision but are unable to focus straight ahead. There is currently much research into this disease being done at the University of Minnesota. People of all ages can suffer from dry eyes, but the condition becomes more common as we age because we secrete fewer tears. Tears help clean the eye surface and protect it from infection.
Dry eyes are most common in women after they reach menopause.
People with certain diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, may be susceptible to dry eyes. Blinking problems and disorders of the eye or eyelid can also lead to this condition. Medications such as antihistamines or blood pressure pills, and even some eye drops, can make the eyes feel dry. Air pollution, evaporation of moisture from the air, and seasonal dryness also contribute to the feeling of dryness. If eyes are irritated, red, overly sensitive to light, or vision is blurred for more than 24 hours, contact an ophthalmologist.