Dry Eyes? Here’s What You Can Do

Dry eye is a common condition that can impact your comfort, focus, and overall quality of life. Whether it's a mild annoyance or a persistent issue, understanding the cause of your symptoms is key to finding lasting relief. At Coronado Eye Care Optometry, we help patients get to the root of their dry eye symptoms and offer personalized treatment solutions to restore comfort and clarity.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor, leading to inadequate lubrication on the surface of the eyes. Tears are essential for maintaining eye health, supporting clear vision, and protecting against infection. When this delicate balance is disrupted, it can result in a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Redness or a gritty feeling

• Blurred vision

• Excessive tearing

• Eye fatigue
 

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can develop for many reasons, often due to underlying conditions or lifestyle factors. Some of the most common include:

• Aging: Tear production tends to decrease with age, making dry eye more common in older adults.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): These glands, located along the edge of your eyelids, produce the oily layer of your tear film. If they become clogged, tears evaporate too quickly.

• Blepharitis: Chronic inflammation of the eyelids can disrupt normal tear production and worsen dryness.

• Eye Surgery: Procedures such as LASIK or cataract surgery can temporarily or permanently affect tear production.

• Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses can contribute to dryness by disrupting the tear film.

• Allergies: Environmental or seasonal allergies may lead to inflammation and dryness.

• Medications: Certain medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs can reduce tear production.

• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome are often linked to dry eye.
 

What You Can Do

If you're struggling with dry eye symptoms, the first step is understanding that relief is possible. Here are a few things you can do:

• Avoid triggers: Reduce screen time, take frequent breaks, and use a humidifier in dry environments.

• Practice good eyelid hygiene: Gently clean your eyelids to remove debris and reduce inflammation.

• Wear sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from wind and sun exposure can help reduce tear evaporation.

• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water supports overall tear production.
 

Effective Dry Eye Treatment Options

At Coronado Eye Care Optometry, we start with a comprehensive dry eye evaluation to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. During your visit, Dr. Moffett carefully assess factors such as tear volume and composition, Meibomian gland function, eyelid health, signs of inflammation or blepharitis, and your medical history, including current medications.

Once we’ve identified the specific cause of your dry eye, we can recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. One of the most effective starting points is eyelid hygiene. Regularly cleaning the eyelid margins can help reduce inflammation and support the healthy function of the Meibomian glands, which are essential for producing the oily layer of your tear film.

For many patients, artificial tears can provide quick relief by supplementing your natural tear production and maintaining moisture on the eye’s surface. In cases where inflammation plays a significant role, prescription eye drops may be recommended to boost tear production and reduce irritation.

We may also suggest nutritional supplements, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve tear quality and reduce the frequency of dry eye symptoms. For more persistent cases, punctal plugs can be inserted into the tear ducts to slow tear drainage. This helps your natural tears stay on the eye longer, increasing comfort and reducing dryness. Each treatment plan is personalized to address your unique condition and symptoms, ensuring you receive the most effective care possible.
 

Find Dry Eye Relief at Coronado Eye Care Optometry

Dry eyes don’t have to disrupt your daily life. With the right diagnosis and targeted treatment, you can regain comfort and protect your long-term eye health. We take a personalized approach to help you see clearly and comfortably.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation at Coronado Eye Care Optometry to find the right treatment for your needs. Visit our office in Coronado, California, or call (619) 435-6221 to book an appointment today.