goodtoknow says: You can get dry eyes at any age, but you're more prone to dry eyes if you're over 50, post-menopausal, on medication, have damaged your eye, or have an illness such as rheumatoid arthritis. Dry eyes are caused through lack of tears and your eyes may not actually feel dry, but they may feel sore and gritty and you can have slightly blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses they may feel uncomfortable. Don't worry, dry eyes won't cause any long-term damage and there are a lot of treatments available such as artificial tears eye drops and ointments.

For a full medical explanation of the causes, symptoms and treatments of dry eyes, read on.

Dry eye syndrome ('dry eyes') is a common cause of eye irritation. It mainly affects older people. Artificial tears and soothing ointments usually ease symptoms.

What is dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome (also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca) occurs when there is a problem with the tear film that normally keeps the eye moist and lubricated. It can occur as a result of various conditions.

• Next: What is the tear film?

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