Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing discomfort and impacting quality of life. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, untreated dry eye can lead to more serious issues, including inflammation, blurred vision, and damage to the surface of the eye. At SeePort Optometry, Dr. Hicks and our team offer comprehensive dry eye evaluations and treatments tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes either do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance in the tear film can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, leaving your eyes feeling irritated, gritty, and fatigued.

There are two primary types of dry eye. Aqueous-deficient dry eye is caused by inadequate tear production from the lacrimal glands, resulting in insufficient moisture on the eye's surface. Evaporative dry eye is typically due to poor tear quality, which leads to rapid evaporation. This type is often associated with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction.

Symptoms of dry eye can vary in intensity from mild to severe. Common signs include a burning, stinging, or scratchy sensation in the eyes, as well as redness and irritation. You may also experience sensitivity to light and occasional blurry vision.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of dry eye, including:
 

• Age: Tear production naturally decreases with age.

• Environmental factors: Wind, dry air, and prolonged screen time can affect tear evaporation.

• Contact lens wear: Extended wear can interfere with the tear film.

• Hormonal changes: Especially common during menopause.

• Medical conditions: Such as autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and allergies.

• Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medications can reduce tear production.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): The meibomian glands, located along the eyelid margins, produce the oil layer of your tear film. When these glands become blocked or don’t function properly, tears evaporate too quickly, resulting in evaporative dry eye.
   

Why a Professional Diagnosis Matters

Although dry eye symptoms can feel familiar, the underlying causes vary widely. Dr. Hicks performs a comprehensive dry eye evaluation to determine the type and cause of your dry eye, including testing for MGD, tear production, and ocular surface health. By identifying the root cause, we can recommend personalized treatments that address your specific condition.
 

Dry Eye Treatment Options

Treatment for dry eye depends on the severity and underlying cause of your symptoms. Some of the most effective options include:

• Eyelid hygiene products: Special cleansers and warm compresses can help clear blockages in the meibomian glands and reduce inflammation.

• Artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops help supplement natural tear production and offer relief from dryness.

• Prescription eye drops: Medications can reduce inflammation and improve tear production.

• Nutritional supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the quality of your tears when taken consistently.

• Punctal plugs: These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to slow tear drainage, keeping the eyes moist for longer.
   

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation Today

Living with dry eye can interfere with your daily activities and overall comfort. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward lasting relief. With the right care and a personalized treatment plan, you can restore eye comfort and protect your long-term vision health.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye, schedule a comprehensive dry eye evaluation with Dr. Hicks at SeePort Optometry for a treatment plan tailored to your needs.