Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. There are more than 80 known types, each affecting different parts of the body and causing a wide range of symptoms. One common issue associated with several autoimmune conditions is dry eye syndrome (DES)—a chronic condition that can significantly impact comfort and quality of life.
At Dr. Cheryl Letheren & Associates in London, Ontario, we provide diagnosis and treatment for dry eye related to autoimmune disease and other causes.
Understanding the Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes aren’t getting the moisture they need—either because they don’t produce enough tears or because the tears they do make don’t stay on the surface long enough to keep it lubricated. The result can be eyes that feel scratchy, irritated, red, or unusually watery as they try to compensate for the dryness.
Although changes in your environment—like air-conditioned rooms, windy days, extended screen use, or certain makeup products—can trigger symptoms, dry eye can also be a sign of an underlying health problem, including autoimmune disease. If it’s not managed, the condition can progress, leading to ongoing inflammation, damage to the cornea, and in severe cases, permanent changes to vision.
Why Do Autoimmune Diseases Cause Dry Eyes?
Autoimmune diseases can interfere with the function of the tear glands by triggering the immune system to attack them. This reduces tear production and destabilizes the tear film. While treating the autoimmune disease can sometimes ease symptoms, certain medications used to manage these conditions—like some anti-inflammatory drugs—may actually worsen dry eye.
Autoimmune Diseases Linked to Dry Eye
Several autoimmune diseases are known to increase the risk of developing dry eye syndrome, including:
- Sjogren's Syndrome: Frequently linked to other autoimmune disorders, this condition targets the tear and salivary glands, leading to chronic dryness in the eyes and mouth.
- Lupus: A systemic condition that can affect the eyes, causing inflammation and dryness.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: While best known for joint inflammation, RA can also affect the eyes, particularly the glands that produce tears.
- Thyroid Eye Disease: Immune system activity can cause inflammation in and around the eyes, triggering dry eye symptoms.
- Type 1 Diabetes: High blood sugar can impair tear production, speed up evaporation, and damage nerves that signal the eyes when they are dry.
If you have an autoimmune disease and notice symptoms like burning, stinging, or watery eyes, it’s important to discuss these with your optometrist and include your medical history in the conversation.
Treating Dry Eye at Dr. Cheryl Letheren & Associates
Managing dry eye caused by autoimmune disease often requires a tailored approach. This may include prescription eye drops, in-office treatments to improve tear quality, or lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms. Our goal is to relieve discomfort, protect your vision, and improve your overall eye health.
If you are living with an autoimmune condition and experiencing dry eye symptoms, call Dr. Cheryl Letheren & Associates at 519-434-2221 to schedule your comprehensive dry eye evaluation.
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