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Decreased tearing Considerations:
Tears are necessary for the normal lubrication of the eye and to wash away particles and foreign bodies. Dry eyes are caused by a lack of tears which may be a result of an underlying disease, or a side effect of medication. Dry eyes may also occur from the abnormal drainage of tears onto the face.
Some decrease in tearing is normal with aging.
Common Causes:
- aging, normally causes some decrease in tearing
- vitamin A deficiency , can also cause poor night vision
- eye trauma or injury to the eye(s)--(see eye emergency )
- drugs including any anticholinergic drug, atropine, cyclopentolate, scopolamine, tropicamide
- Sjogren's syndrome
Note: There may be other causes of dry eyes. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for dry eyes, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
Home Care:
Artificial tears are available over-the-counter or by prescription in either drops or ointment.
Call Your Healthcare Provider If:
- decreased tearing is significant, prolonged, or associated with other unexplained symptoms.
What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination , including an eye examination, will be performed.
Medical history questions documenting decreased tearing in detail may include: - time pattern
- How long have you had decreased tearing?
- Is it constant?
- Does it only occur at certain times or in certain places?
- quality
- Does it affect vision?
- Does it cause pain?
- Do the eyelids close easily?
- Has drainage from eyes or nose been noticed?
- location
- Does it involve both eyes?
- aggravating factors
- What makes it worse?
- What medications are being taken?
- Has there ever been surgery or an injury to the eyes or nose?
- Does it seem to be related to exposure to wind, dust, chemicals, sun, or light?
- Are there any allergies ?
- Are cosmetics used (eye make-up, face lotions, astringents)?
- relieving factors
- Does anything help relieve it?
- Have artificial tears been used?
- other
- What other symptoms are also present?
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include: - culture and sensitivity testing of tear specimen
- Schirmer's test
Intervention:
For non-traumatic decreased tearing, artificial tears may be prescribed.
After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to dry eyes to your personal medical record.
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