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Article: Dry Eye Syndrome; Key Q&A.(Disease/Disorder overview)
- Article from:
- NWHRC Health Center - Dry Eye Syndrome
- Article date:
- July 9, 2007
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2007 National Women's Health Resource Center. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is a group of disorders affecting the film of tears over the eye. When you have dry eye syndrome, either you don't produce enough tears, or you have unstable tears and excessive tear evaporation.
What causes or contributes to dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye disproportionately affects more women than men and is often caused by hormonal changes due to aging and menopause. Dry eye also can be triggered by certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. Additionally, dry eye can be caused by autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid ...