Dry eye affects nearly 16 million Americans and occurs when your tear film becomes unstable, either because your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. Your tear film contains three layers: an oily outer layer, a watery middle layer, and a mucus inner layer. When any of these components becomes imbalanced, the protective barrier over your eye’s surface breaks down.

Common symptoms include burning, stinging, scratchy sensations, excessive tearing, blurred vision, and the sensation that something is in your eye. Many patients experience worsened symptoms in dry environments, while using digital devices, or during activities that require sustained visual attention. Environmental factors, such as wind, smoke, air conditioning, and heating systems, can significantly worsen symptoms.

The condition affects people of all ages, but it becomes more prevalent with age, particularly after the age of 50. Hormonal changes, certain medications, medical conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, and lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of dry eye, making regular eye exams essential for early detection.

Types of Dry Eye

Two primary types of dry eye exist, each requiring different treatment approaches.

Treatment for dry eye varies based on severity and underlying causes. Mild cases often respond well to over-the-counter artificial tears, but many patients require more comprehensive approaches for lasting relief.

Prescription eye drops can lessen inflammation and increase tear production. Cyclosporine and lifitegrast are FDA-approved medications specifically designed for the treatment of dry eye. These drops require consistent use over several weeks to months to achieve maximum benefit.

For evaporative dry eye, treatments focus on improving oil gland function. Warm compresses, lid hygiene techniques, and specialized cleaning solutions help clear blocked oil glands and reduce bacterial growth along the eyelid margins. We also offer in-office treatments (BlephEx and iLux) to clean gland openings and encourage proper function.

Advanced treatment options include:

• Punctal plugs to slow tear drainage

• Intense pulsed light therapy for oil gland dysfunction

• Prescription medications to reduce inflammation

• Nutritional supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids

• Scleral contact lenses and amniotic membranes for severe cases

  Our doctors work closely with you to determine the most effective combination of treatments tailored to your specific situation.

Simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve dry eye symptoms and prevent progression. Staying hydrated supports healthy tear production, while using a humidifier adds moisture to dry indoor air. Taking regular breaks during computer work follows the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Protecting your eyes from wind and UV exposure with wraparound sunglasses helps prevent tear evaporation. Avoiding smoke and other eye irritants reduces inflammation and discomfort. Many patients find relief by adjusting air vents away from their faces and using preservative-free artificial tears regularly.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Diet plays a supporting role in eye health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds, fish, and walnuts, may help reduce inflammation and improve the quality of tears. Staying well-hydrated throughout the day supports overall eye health and tear production.