Dry eye has many causes that are all related to dysfunction of the tear film. If this protective barrier is inadequate, the surface of the eye dries out. Most dry eye is unrelated to medical problems, but autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, sarcoidosis and rheumatoid arthritis may be the underlying cause. Antihistamines, high blood pressure medications, birth control pills, some antibiotics and vitamin A deficiency may also cause the problem. A thorough evaluation is often necessary to determine the cause.
Treatment usually involves the use of various artificial tears.
These may need to be used many times a day. Sometimes an underlying disease must be treated to get adequate relief. In some cases, relief can only be attained by plugging the tear ducts surgically or with punctal plugs. Chronic open angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma. Fluid is constantly flowing within the eye and with this type of glaucoma the fluid does not exit the eye normally and causes the pressure inside the eye to rise and damage sight.