Dry eye is a common and often chronic problem. With each blink of the eyelids, tears spread across the front surface of the eye, known as the cornea. Tears provide lubrication, reduce the risk of eye infection, wash away foreign matter in the eye and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear. Excess tears in the eyes flow into small drainage ducts in the inner corners of the eyelids, which drain into the back of the nose. Dry eyes can occur when tear production and drainage is not in balance. Allergies or environmental factors can play a role in a person having dry eyes. Exposure to smoke, wind and dry climates can increase tear evaporation resulting in dry eye symptoms.