Understanding and Treating Dry Eye Syndrome

Do you suffer from dry, irritated, or tired eyes? You’re not alone. Dry eye syndrome is an extremely common condition that affects millions of adults in the U.S., especially as they age. It occurs when the quantity or quality of your tears isn’t sufficient to keep your eyes properly lubricated.

Tears aren’t just for crying — they play a crucial role in maintaining clear, comfortable vision. They help prevent infection, wash away debris, and keep the surface of your eyes smooth. When your eyes don’t produce enough tears — or your tears evaporate too quickly — dry eye symptoms can develop and worsen over time.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms can range from occasional irritation to chronic inflammation that may damage the surface of the eye. You may experience:

• Burning or itching
• A gritty or sandy feeling
• Redness
• Dryness
• Heavy, fatigued eyes
• Blurred or fluctuating vision

In more advanced cases, untreated dry eye can lead to scarring, impaired vision, or even interfere with surgical outcomes like LASIK or cataract procedures.
 

Why Dry Eye Happens: Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to you getting dry eyes, including:

• Aging – Risk increases after age 50.
• Menopause – Women are more likely to experience dry eye, particularly post-menopause.
• Health Conditions – Autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes.
• Medications – Antihistamines, antidepressants, and some blood pressure meds can reduce tear production.
• Digital Screen Use – Less frequent blinking while using computers or smartphones accelerates tear evaporation.
• Contact Lens Wear – Prolonged use can contribute to dryness.
• Environmental Factors – Air conditioning, heating systems, arid climates, wind, and cigarette smoke can dry out the eyes.
• Flying – The dry air in airplane cabins often exacerbates symptoms.

Diagnosing Dry Eye

There are two main types of dry eye:

• Aqueous-deficient dry eye – Your eyes don’t produce enough tears. This is less common and can be associated with systemic conditions.
• Evaporative dry eye – Your eyes make tears, but the quality is poor due to an oil deficiency. This is the most common type.

Healthy tears consist of water, oil, and mucus. The oil component helps prevent the watery layer from evaporating. If the oil glands in your eyelids (called meibomian glands) aren’t functioning properly, your tears evaporate too quickly.

Your optometrist can diagnose dry eye during a comprehensive eye exam. This may include reviewing your medical history, assessing your eyelids and tear film under magnification, and discussing symptoms and lifestyle.

In the YouTube video below, Dr. Mark Siefkes, our expert optometrist, discusses Dry Eye Syndrome, including diagnostic tests and treatment options.

How Dry Eye Is Treated

Dry eye won’t resolve on its own — but the good news is that it’s very manageable! Treatment focuses on restoring a healthy tear film and relieving discomfort.

• Prescription eye drops or ointments, like Restasis
• Warm compresses and lid massage to open up oil glands
• Lid hygiene with eyelid scrubs or cleaners to reduce inflammation
• Punctal plugs – A minor procedure to block tear drainage and retain moisture
• Nutritional supplements, especially omega-3 fatty acids, may help improve tear quality

We often recommend a heated eye mask treatment using Bruder Mask. These masks use moisture-absorbing beads that, once heated in the microwave for 20 seconds and worn for 5 minutes, release gentle heat that melts blockages in the glands. It’s simple, safe, and part of an effective long-term routine to improve tear quality. 
 

Simple Dry Eye Self-Care Tips

You can also make lifestyle changes to reduce dry eye symptoms:

• Blink often, especially when using digital devices
• Use a humidifier to increase moisture in your home or office
• Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to block wind and sun
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water daily
• Reduce exposure to air-conditioned or heated environments
• Turn down fans or oscillating air flows, which may dry your eyes faster

Don’t Wait — Relief Is Possible

There’s no reason to live with the discomfort of dry eyes. We’ll help you determine the best treatment plan based on your individual symptoms and lifestyle.

Contact Eye Associates today to schedule your appointment and start seeing the difference that clear, comfortable vision can make.

The information in this article should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your health care provider about your specific health needs.