Dry eye is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Many people suffer from dry eyes without realizing it, which can lead to irritation, discomfort, and even vision problems. In this article, we’ll explore dry eye symptoms, the main causes of dry eye, and the most effective dry eye treatments to help you find relief.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping your eyes lubricated, protecting against infection, and maintaining clear vision.
Dry eye is generally classified into two types: Aqueous-deficient dry eye, where your eyes don’t make enough tears to keep them lubricated, and Evaporative dry eye, where tears evaporate too quickly, leaving eyes dry and irritated. production
Dry eye can affect one or both eyes and ranges from mild and occasional to chronic and severe. Many patients have a combination of both types, which requires a personalized treatment plan.
Common Dry Eye Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of dry eye is the first step in managing it. Common dry eye symptoms include:
- Grittiness or a sandy feeling in the eyes
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Red, bloodshot eyes
- Excess tearing as the eyes try to compensate
- Blurred vision, especially during reading or screen use
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Eye fatigue or heaviness
Symptoms often worsen in dry, windy environments, air-conditioned rooms, or during long periods of screen time.
Causes of Dry Eye
1. Aging
Tear production naturally decreases with age, especially after 50.
2. Hormonal Changes
Menopause and other hormonal fluctuations—particularly in women—can reduce tear production.
3. Medical Conditions
- Sjögren’s syndrome and other autoimmune diseases
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Rheumatoid arthritis and related inflammatory conditions
4. Medications
Drugs that can lower tear production or worsen dryness include: antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, some blood pressure medications, and hormonal treatments.
5. Environmental Factors / Lifestyle
Dry air, wind, smoke, and air conditioning increase tear evaporation.
Extended screen time reduces blinking, which can worsen dryness.
6. Contact Lens Use
Long-term contact lens wear can disrupt the tear film and irritate the eye.
7. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
Blocked or poorly functioning oil glands in the eyelids lead to faster tear evaporation (evaporative dry eye).
8. Eyelid Problems
Incomplete blinking, eyelid inflammation (blepharitis), or other lid issues can impair tear spread and stability.
9. Eye Surgery
Procedures like LASIK or cataract surgery can temporarily reduce tear production or destabilize the tear film.
Diagnosing Dry Eye
Our ophthalmologist, Dr. Tyler Ferguson, can diagnose dry eye using various tests, including:
- Tear film break-up time (TBUT): Measures how long tears remain on the eye surface.
- Schirmer’s test: Assesses tear production levels.
- Ocular surface staining: Detects damage to the cornea and conjunctiva.
- Meibomian gland evaluation: Checks for blocked oil glands, which can affect tear quality.
Proper diagnosis ensures targeted treatment and better symptom management. Schedule an appointment today to evaluate your symptoms and get relief from dry, irritated, tired eyes.
Treatment Options for Dry Eye
Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause of dry eye. Options include:
1. Lifestyle and Environmental Adjustments
- Use humidifiers to add moisture to dry indoor air.
- Take regular breaks from screens and practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Wear sunglasses or protective eyewear outdoors to reduce wind and dust exposure.
- Stay hydrated to support overall tear production.
2. Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops
- Over-the-counter drops can temporarily relieve dryness.
- Choose preservative-free options for frequent use.
- Gel or ointment formulations provide longer-lasting relief, especially overnight.
3. Prescription Medications
- Cyclosporine (Restasis®) or lifitegrast (Xiidra®) may reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
- Anti-inflammatory medications may be used for cases associated with ocular surface inflammation.
4. Punctal Plugs
- Tiny plugs inserted into the tear ducts can reduce tear drainage and increase moisture on the eye surface.
5. Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene
- Useful for treating meibomian gland dysfunction, a common cause of evaporative dry eye.
- Helps improve oil flow and stabilize the tear film.
6. Dietary and Supplement Approaches
- Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or flaxseed may improve tear quality.
- A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E supports eye health.
Preventive Measures
- Take regular breaks during prolonged reading or screen use
- Blink frequently and consciously when using computers or smartphones
- Maintain healthy nutrition and hydration
- Avoid smoking and reduce exposure to pollutants
- Schedule regular eye exams to monitor eye health
When to See a Healthcare Professional
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening eye discomfort
- Blurred vision or vision loss
- Severe redness or sensitivity to light
- Eye pain that does not improve with over-the-counter drops
Early evaluation can prevent complications, including corneal damage or chronic discomfort. If left untreated, dry eye can lead to an increased risk of eye infections, difficulty wearing contact lenses, or corneal damage or ulcers in severe cases.
By addressing dry eye proactively, you can preserve eye health, improve comfort, and maintain clear vision.
Protect Your Eyes from Dryness
Dry eye is manageable with proper care, early diagnosis, and treatment. Incorporating lifestyle adjustments, using lubricating eye drops, and seeking professional care can significantly improve comfort and eye health.
If you experience persistent dryness, irritation, or blurred vision, schedule an appointment with an eye care professional today. Early intervention ensures the best outcomes and helps you maintain clear, comfortable vision for years to come.
