Combatting Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes and Remedies

Dry, irritated eyes can make even the simplest tasks feel uncomfortable and frustrating. If you have experienced burning, redness, or a gritty sensation in your eyes, you might be dealing with Dry Eye Syndrome. At Salt River Eye Care, we are committed to helping you understand the causes of dry eye and guiding you toward effective relief.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the eye’s surface and for providing clear vision. Without a stable tear film, the eyes become irritated, inflamed, and vulnerable to damage.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

One of the leading underlying causes of dry eye is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands, located along the edge of the eyelids, produce the oily layer of your tears. When these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, it results in an unstable tear film that evaporates too quickly, leading to dry, irritated eyes.

There are many additional factors that can contribute to Dry Eye Syndrome, including:

• Age: Tear production naturally declines with age, making dry eye more common in older adults.

• Environmental Conditions: Wind, smoke, dry air, and prolonged screen time can exacerbate dryness.

• Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders, can interfere with tear production.

• Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications are among those that can cause dry eye as a side effect.

• Hormonal Changes: Especially common during menopause, hormonal shifts can significantly impact tear production.

Remedies for Dry Eye

The good news is that there are several ways to manage and alleviate dry eye symptoms. Some effective remedies include:

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help supplement natural tears.

• Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to your eyes can help unclog meibomian glands and improve oil flow.

• Lid Hygiene: Regular cleaning of the eyelids can prevent gland blockages and reduce inflammation.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Reducing screen time, using a humidifier, and wearing wraparound sunglasses can help minimize environmental triggers.

• Omega-3 Supplements: These fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseed, may support healthy tear production.

When to See Your Doctor

If you find that dry eye symptoms persist despite using over-the-counter remedies, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. Chronic dry eye can lead to complications such as corneal damage or infections if left untreated. Professional evaluation allows us to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to provide lasting relief. At Salt River Eye Care, we offer specialized treatments targeting the root causes of dry eye, including therapies designed to treat MGD.

Ready to Find Dry Eye Relief?

Dry Eye Syndrome can impact your quality of life, but you do not have to live with discomfort. By understanding the causes and seeking appropriate remedies, you can protect your vision and find relief from the irritating symptoms of dry eye.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Salt River Eye Care for personalized treatment. Visit our office in Scottsdale, Arizona, or call (480) 278-7732 to book an appointment today.