Understanding the Symptoms and Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye syndrome is more than a minor inconvenience—it’s a chronic condition that can interfere with your comfort and daily activities. From working on digital devices to enjoying time outdoors, dry eye can make simple tasks frustrating. By understanding its symptoms and causes, and seeking timely care, you can protect your eye health and improve your quality of life. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment are key to finding lasting relief.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the quality of your tears is insufficient to provide proper lubrication. Symptoms vary, but the most common include:

• Persistent dryness: A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes.

• Redness: Inflammation or irritation that causes the eyes to appear bloodshot.

• Itching or burning: Sensations of discomfort that worsen in certain environments, such as dry or windy conditions.

• Blurred vision: Intermittent difficulty focusing, particularly after prolonged screen time.

• Light sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to bright lights.
   

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care. Left untreated, dry eye can lead to more serious complications, including damage to the corneal surface.
 

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye can be triggered by a variety of factors. Understanding the root cause is key to finding the right treatment.

• Environmental Conditions: Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air can cause tear evaporation.

• Screen Time: Prolonged use of digital devices often leads to reduced blinking, which can dry out the eyes.

• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age, especially after 50.

• Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, or blood pressure drugs, can reduce tear production.

• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome or conditions like meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) can contribute to dry eye.

• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, or hormonal therapies may affect tear production.
   

Identifying the specific cause of your dry eye helps determine the most effective treatment.
 

The Importance of Diagnosis for Personalized Treatment

Not all dry eye cases are the same, which is why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. A professional eye exam at Monrovia Optometry can help pinpoint the underlying cause of your symptoms through a thorough evaluation.
 

Our diagnostic process may include:

• Tear film analysis: Assessing the quality and quantity of your tears.

• Meibomian gland evaluation: Examining the glands responsible for producing the oily layer of your tears.

• Lifestyle assessment: Understanding your daily habits and environmental factors that may contribute to dry eye.
   

Tailored Treatments for Lasting Relief

After a thorough diagnosis, we will create a customized treatment plan designed specifically for your needs. Dry eye is a complex condition, and personalized care is essential to address the root causes and provide effective relief.
 

Common treatments for dry eye include artificial tears, which can be over-the-counter or prescription drops that offer temporary relief by replenishing moisture. Additional treatments may involve lid hygiene practices to improve the health of the eyelids or oral supplements to support tear production and overall eye health. We may also suggest lifestyle adjustments, such as optimizing your environment or incorporating habits that reduce symptoms, like taking breaks during screen time or using a humidifier. 
 

Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific symptoms and underlying causes, ensuring the best possible outcome for your eye comfort and vision.
 

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Dry eye doesn’t have to disrupt your life. With the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, you can achieve long-lasting relief and improve your eye health. We’re dedicated to identifying the root cause of your dry eye symptoms and providing tailored solutions that fit your lifestyle.
 

If you’ve been struggling with dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with Monrovia Optometry, and take the first step toward clear, comfortable vision. Visit our office in Monrovia, California, or call (626) 359-1213 to book an appointment today.