Cause of Dry Eyes

• Dry eyes occur primarily because the eye and tear ducts are no longer producing an adequate amount of moisture to keep dust out. According to the Mayo Clinic, the lack of moisture produced in the eye may lead to dry spots, which cause a burning or itchy sensation. Some causes of dry, itchy eyes include the environment such as dry climate, wind or hot air, as well as the exposure to pollen or other seasonal allergies.
  
  Medications may also increase the risk of dry eye, including allergy medication such as decongestants and antihistamines, birth control pills and diuretics or inhibitor medications used to treat or regulate blood pressure levels.
  
  

Home Remedies for Dry, Itchy Eyes

• A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in October 2005 found that getting Omega-3 fatty acids either from natural fish sources or supplements decreased symptoms by as much as 68 percent. The study indicated that five servings of fish a week that contained omega-3 such as salmon, tuna, cod liver oil and sardines, helped to provide moisture back to the eye.
  
  According to a study in "Opthalmologica: 1997," dry eyes may be a result of the lack of vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is important to the eye cells to keep them healthy, as well as produce the mucus layer that protects the eye. The study indicates that a diet containing vitamin A may improve dry eyes, as well as improve vision. Food sources that contain the vitamin include yams, cantaloupes, fish oil and carrots.
  
  Prevent dry eyes outdoors by wearing protective sunglasses. Wearing sunglasses can prevent dust, wind and sun from drying out the eyes. Add additional protection by choosing glasses with a close-fitting frame or protectant foam to enclose the glasses to the face.
  
  Use an indoor humidifier to add moisture into the air during dry, seasonal months. By adding moisture into the air, you will cut down on dryness as well as dust or pollen that may be floating around. Ideally, add the humidifier to the room that you are in frequently, such as the bedroom.