Common oral and topical medications could be causing dry eye in patients, according to optometrists.
Dry eye is a common condition in which the eye produces fewer or poorer quality tears and is unable to keep its surface lubricated and comfortable.
According to studies, common medications can interfere with the normal secretions from ocular glands, causing dry eye as a side effect.
"A number of people suffering from dry eye are unaware of the link between common medications and this condition," says Optometrists Association Australia professional services manager, Shirley Loh.
Ms Loh says that medications such as the contraceptive pill, anti-histamines, tricyclic anti-depressants, topical and systemic beta-blockers and topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents are known to be common causes of 'dry eye'.
Symptoms of 'dry eye' may include a scratchy or gritty feeling as though something is in the eye, general eye irritation, redness, persistently watery eyes, blurred vision, sore or stinging eyes, the sensation of dryness or a decreased tolerance to contact lenses.
Other causes of 'dry eye' can include environmental factors, ageing, hormonal changes, wearing contact lenses and arthritis.
Ms Loh recommends that anyone suffering from symptoms of 'dry eye' see their optometrist for a diagnosis and disclose any medications they are currently taking.
"The way in which dry eye is treated depends on the type and severity of the condition," says Ms Loh.
"Mild dry eye is best managed by using ocular lubricants or 'tear supplements'. Tear supplements are not drugs and do not 'cure' dry eye, but provide symptomatic relief by moisturising and lubricating the eye, effectively replacing the tears," she says.