Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Dry eye syndrome is a common and often frustrating condition that affects many people in Gilbert. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience at first, chronic dry eye can significantly impact your quality of life and eye health. At Gilbert Family Eye Center, we’re here to help you understand what causes dry eye, recognize its symptoms, and find effective treatments to restore comfort and clarity to your vision.
 

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. A healthy tear film is essential for maintaining eye lubrication, protecting against infections, and ensuring clear vision. When this system is disrupted, it leads to inflammation, irritation, and dryness.
 

Common causes of dry eye include:
 

• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age, especially after age 50.
• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked or dysfunctional, it leads to faster tear evaporation and chronic dry eye symptoms.
• Environmental factors: Wind, dry air, smoke, and screen exposure can accelerate tear evaporation.
• Medical conditions: Autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can affect tear production.
• Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs may reduce tear production.
• Contact lens use: Long-term wear can interfere with tear film stability.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and hormone replacement therapy can contribute to dry eyes.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms can range from mild to severe and may affect one or both eyes. Common signs to watch for include:
 

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation
• Redness and irritation
• Blurred vision that improves with blinking
• Sensitivity to light
• A sensation of having something in your eye
• Watery eyes
• Eye fatigue, especially after screen use

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms regularly, it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam to determine the underlying cause and find relief.
 

Effective Treatments for Dry Eye

The good news is that dry eye syndrome can often be managed successfully with the right treatment plan. At Gilbert Family Eye Center, we offer a range of customized solutions based on your specific condition and lifestyle.
 

Treatment options may include:
 

• Artificial tears and lubricating drops to supplement moisture
• Prescription medications such as anti-inflammatory eye drops or tear-stimulating drugs
• Punctal plugs to help retain natural tears by blocking tear drainage
• Lifestyle adjustments like taking screen breaks, using a humidifier, or wearing sunglasses
• Advanced in-office treatments, including thermal pulsation therapy or intense pulsed light (IPL), to target meibomian gland dysfunction

Our goal is to not only relieve symptoms but also address the root cause of your dry eye to promote long-term eye health.
 

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Living with dry eye doesn’t have to be your new normal. We’re dedicated to helping you find lasting comfort through personalized care and advanced treatment options.
 

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with Gilbert Family Eye Center to determine if IPL therapy is right for you. Visit our office in Gilbert, Arizona, or call (480) 279-4400 today.