Dry Eyes Dry eye is a condition caused by the result of not being able to produce adequate tears to keep the eye moist, which is essential to providing good vision. Symptoms include: stinging or burning eyes, scratchiness, an increase in eye matter, irritation from smoke or wind. While dry eye can occur in both men and women, it is more likely seen in women following menopause. Various other medical conditions such as arthritis can also be a cause of dry eye. Prescription and over-the-counter medications can also cause dry eyes. Such medications include diuretics, antihistamines, sleeping pills, and pain relievers. An eyecare practitioner can detect a dry eye condition by measuring a person's tear production ability. Treatment Treatment for dry eye usually requires the use of an artificial tear eye drop which is available without a prescription. Other prevention methods can include the use of a humidifier to add moisture to the air, avoidance of smoke, wind, hair dryers, and excessive heat.  Back