What causes severe eye dryness?

Inadequate tear production causes dry eyes, according to Mayo Clinic. This can be a by-product of poor tear quality, slow tear production, difficulty blinking and certain medications. Environmental concerns, such as windy, dry air, and tasks that require intense visual focus can also cause dry eyes.

Symptoms of dry eyes include a stinging or burning sensation in the eye area, eye fatigue, sensitivity to light, and redness of the eyes, according to Mayo Clinic. For a majority of sufferers, over-the-counter eye drops, such as artificial tears, alleviate symptoms. If the condition continues for a prolonged period of time or worsens, the individual should seek medical care.