Understanding Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease is one of the most common reasons patients visit the eye doctor, yet many people do not realize that their symptoms may actually be related to dryness and inflammation of the eyes.
If your eyes often feel irritated, tired, watery, or blurry, you may be experiencing dry eye disease.
At Infocus Eye Care, we help patients identify the underlying causes of dry eye symptoms and create personalized treatment plans designed to improve both comfort and vision.
What Is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when the eyes either do not produce enough tears or produce poor-quality tears that evaporate too quickly.
Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the eye’s surface. A healthy tear film helps:
Keep the eyes comfortable
Maintain clear vision
Protect against irritation and infection
Support overall eye health
When the tear film becomes unstable, patients may experience ongoing irritation and fluctuating vision.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. Common symptoms include:
Burning or stinging
Grittiness or the sensation of something in the eye
Redness
Blurry or fluctuating vision
Eye fatigue
Excessive tearing or watery eyes
Sensitivity to light
Difficulty with screens or reading
Discomfort in windy or dry environments
Many patients are surprised to learn that watery eyes can actually be a symptom of dry eye disease. When the eyes become irritated, they may produce reflex tears that do not properly lubricate the eye.
What Causes Dry Eye?
There are many factors that can contribute to dry eye disease, including:
Aging
Hormonal changes
Certain medications
Screen use and reduced blinking
Eyelid inflammation
Autoimmune conditions
Previous eye surgery
In Central Oregon, dry weather, wind, smoke exposure, and seasonal allergens can also contribute to worsening symptoms.
Why Dry Eye Shouldn’t Be Ignored
While dry eye may sound minor, untreated dry eye disease can significantly affect quality of life and visual function.
Patients often notice:
Difficulty driving at night
Reduced reading endurance
Trouble using digital devices
Increased eye fatigue throughout the day
Chronic inflammation associated with dry eye can also impact the overall health of the ocular surface over time.
How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?
A comprehensive eye examination can help identify the underlying causes of dry eye symptoms.
Your provider may evaluate:
Tear quality and quantity
Eyelid health
Inflammation
Meibomian gland function
Corneal surface health
Because dry eye can have multiple contributing factors, identifying the root cause is important for effective treatment.
Treatment Options for Dry Eye Disease
Treatment recommendations vary depending on the severity and cause of dry eye symptoms.
Management options may include:
Artificial tears (More from Dr. Lewis on Artificial Tears HERE)
Prescription eye drops
Warm compresses
Eyelid hygiene
Environmental modifications
Nutritional support
In-office dry eye treatments
Many patients benefit from a combination of therapies designed to improve tear stability and reduce inflammation.
When Should You Schedule an Eye Exam?
If your eyes are consistently uncomfortable, red, tired, or blurry, it may be time for an evaluation.
Many patients assume dry eye symptoms are simply a normal part of aging or screen use, but effective treatment options are available.
At Infocus Eye Care, our team is committed to helping patients improve comfort, protect vision, and better understand the underlying causes of their symptoms.
If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule an appointment with our office to learn more about your treatment options and create a personalized plan for long-term relief.