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Decreased tearing
Definition:
Decreased tearing involves uncomfortably dry eye(s) usually causing tiny abrasions on the eye surface.

Alternative Names:
Dry Eye; Tearing - decreased

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 aging, an underlying disease, or a side effect of medication.

Blepharitis is a dandruff-like buildup on the eyelids which can also cause the tears not to work properly. Treatment of blepharitis with eyelids scrubs and warm compresses can help dry eyes.
Common Causes:
  • Aging, especially with blepharitis
  • Dry environment or workplace (wind, air conditioning)
  • Eye trauma or injury to the eye(s) -- (see eye emergency)
  • Cold medicines, allergy medicines, prescription eye drops
  • Sjogren's syndrome
Home Care:

Artificial tears are available over-the-counter or by prescription in either drops or ointment. The thicker eye drops last longer, but can cause blurry vision. Prevention is the key -- use artificial tears before your eyes feel dry.

Treatment of blepharitis or the dandruff-like buildup on the eyelashes helps tears work better. Use over-the-counter eyelid scrub pads 1-2 times a day for several weeks.
Call your health care provider if:
  • Decreased tearing is significant, prolonged, or associated with other unexplained symptoms.
  • Your eyes become red or painful.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
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.
  • Tearing tests -- new tests are available which can more accurately diagnose dry eye.

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.

Review Date: 11/4/2001
Reviewed By: Raymond S. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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