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Decreased tear secretion occurs when the lacrimal glands produce fewer tears than needed. Tears help lubricate and protect the eye surface. When production drops, the eyes feel dry, irritated, or gritty. The condition varies from mild to severe. Identifying the cause helps guide treatment.
read more about decreased tear secretion ...Aging is a common cause due to reduced gland function. Autoimmune conditions such as Sj?gren's syndrome significantly decrease tear output. Medications including antihistamines and antidepressants also contribute. Environmental factors like low humidity worsen dryness. Hormonal changes can impact tear flow as well.
Symptoms include dryness, burning, redness, and blurry vision. Some people experience excessive tearing as a reflex. Wearing contact lenses becomes uncomfortable. Light sensitivity may worsen during flare-ups. Persistent dryness affects daily comfort.
Doctors use tear production tests such as the Schirmer test. Tear breakup time helps assess film stability. A slit-lamp exam evaluates surface health. Blood tests may be used when autoimmune disease is suspected. Diagnosis helps determine the appropriate treatment.
Decreased tear secretion can lead to ongoing dryness, burning, and fluctuating blur, so treatment works best when the trigger is identified. Daily care often includes lubricating drops, lid hygiene, and reducing airflow exposure, plus review of medications or health conditions that reduce tear production. Follow-up helps if symptoms persist, since prolonged dryness can irritate the cornea and raise infection risk. If you develop sharp pain, strong light sensitivity, or worsening redness, get checked promptly.
Yes. Without enough tears, the eye surface becomes uneven and blurs vision.
Yes. Tear production naturally decreases over time.
Sj?gren's syndrome and other autoimmune disorders are notable causes.
Chronic causes require long-term management rather than cure.
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Causes of Dry Eye. National Eye Institute (NIH). https://www.nei.nih.gov/eye-health-information/eye-conditions-and-diseases/dry-eye/causes-dry-eye. Updated December 6, 2024.
Dry eye syndrome. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia (NIH). https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000426.htm. Updated October 2, 2024.
TFOS DEWS II Definition and Classification Report. PubMed (National Library of Medicine, NIH). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28736335/. Published 2017.
Dry Eye Syndrome. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf, NIH). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470411/. Last Update October 20, 2024.