Dry Eye Struggles: Learn What Causes Dry Eye Disease and How to Relieve the Symptoms

If you’re in Visalia, California, and find yourself dealing with dry, irritated eyes, you’re not alone. The Central Valley’s climate, along with long hours of screen time and other lifestyle factors, can take a toll on your eye health. Dry eye disease is more than just a minor annoyance—it can impact your daily life, making it harder to read, drive, or even enjoy a walk outside without discomfort.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears isn’t sufficient to keep the surface of your eyes properly lubricated. Tears are essential—they keep your eyes comfortable and clear, washing away debris and reducing your risk of infection.

Common Causes of Dry Eye Disease

There isn’t just one reason for dry eye—many factors can contribute to it. One of the most common causes of dry eye is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Your eyelids contain tiny oil glands (meibomian glands) that help prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become clogged or don’t function properly, your tears evaporate too fast, leaving your eyes feeling dry and irritated.

Other causes of dry eye include:

• Environmental Factors: The dry, dusty air in Visalia can quickly dry out your eyes, especially during windy days or allergy season.

• Screen Time: Staring at a screen for long hours (whether it's your phone, computer, or TV) reduces your blink rate, leading to tear evaporation.

• Aging: As we age, tear production naturally decreases, making dry eye more common.

• Contact Lenses: Wearing contacts for extended periods can contribute to dryness and irritation.

• Hormonal Changes: Changes due to pregnancy, menopause, or certain medical conditions can affect tear production.

• Medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and acne treatments, can reduce tear production and contribute to dry eye symptoms.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Dry eye disease can show up in different ways, but common symptoms include:

• A scratchy, gritty, or burning sensation in your eyes

• Redness and irritation, especially after screen use

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurry vision that improves with blinking

• Watery eyes

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to take action. There are solutions that go beyond just using eye drops.

How to Relieve Dry Eye Symptoms

Finding the right treatment starts with understanding the root cause of your dry eye. At Iconic Eyes Optometry, we personalize every treatment plan to fit your specific needs.

• Eyelid Hygiene & Warm Compresses: For those dealing with MGD, keeping your eyelids clean is key. Using a warm compress or a gentle eyelid cleanser can help unclog oil glands and improve tear stability.

• Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can help add moisture, but not all artificial tears are created equal. We can recommend preservative-free options that are best suited for your eyes.

• Prescription Eye Drops: For more persistent cases, medicated eye drops can help improve tear production and reduce inflammation.

• Nutritional Supplements: Your diet plays a role in eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseed, can support healthy tear production. If you’re not getting enough from your diet, supplements may help.

Since dry eye has multiple causes, the most effective treatment is a customized plan that addresses your unique symptoms and lifestyle. Dr. Mathur takes the time to assess what’s really going on with your eyes and find the best solution for you.

Find Relief at Iconic Eyes Optometry

Living with dry eye doesn’t have to be your norm. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, getting the right treatment can make all the difference. If you’re tired of dealing with discomfort, let’s find a solution together.

Schedule a dry eye evaluation at Iconic Eyes Optometry, and take the first step toward lasting relief. Visit our office in Visalia, California, or call (559) 733-9966 to book an appointment today.