Dry eye can affect anyone, causing discomfort and irritation in their daily life. This condition can make many activities less enjoyable, such as using computers, driving, or even spending time outdoors on a sunny day. To effectively manage and treat dry eyes, it’s crucial to understand what’s causing your symptoms.
The most common cause of dry eyes is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). These glands, located along the edges of the eyelids, help maintain a healthy tear film by producing the oil necessary for the lipid layer of the tears. When these glands become blocked or their function is impaired, the tear film can evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness and irritation.
Other contributing factors
While MGD is a leading cause of dry eyes, other factors can also contribute:
Decreased tear production
Sometimes, the tear glands do not produce enough tears to keep the eyes properly lubricated. This can happen due to age, hormonal changes, certain medical conditions (like Sjögren’s syndrome), or as a side effect of medications.
Environmental factors
Environmental conditions such as wind, smoke, air conditioning, or prolonged screen time can accelerate tear evaporation, leading to dry eyes. These factors can exacerbate tear film dysfunction, especially in individuals already susceptible to dry eyes.
Lifestyle and health factors
Certain lifestyle and health factors, like wearing contact lenses, not blinking enough (common during screen use), or not getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, can also lead to dry eyes.
Tips for dry eye relief
Understanding the cause of your dry eyes is the first step toward finding relief. Here are a few strategies that might help:
- OptiLight IPL therapy: IPL therapy targets inflammation and improves meibomian gland function, offering relief from dry eyes by addressing one of the root causes. At Lighthouse Vision, we offer this advanced dry eye treatment in Milford, and we can help you decide if it’s the right option for your specific case.
- Artificial tears: While artificial tears provide temporary relief, using them too often can lead to dependency, and they may not address underlying issues. If artificial tears are no longer effective, we may suggest prescription eye drops or medications.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Taking regular breaks from screens, using a humidifier, and protecting your eyes from wind and smoke can help alleviate symptoms.
- Nutritional supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids can support eye health and improve tear production. Consider incorporating them into your diet or taking supplements.
- Regular eye exams: Schedule an appointment with an eye care professional to determine the best treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
With so many potential triggers and underlying issues, it can be overwhelming to pinpoint exactly what’s causing your eyes to feel dry and uncomfortable. Whether you’re experiencing occasional irritation or chronic discomfort, our experienced Milford eye doctor can help you get to the bottom of the issue. After a thorough exam, we will recommend targeted treatment to address the root causes rather than just masking the symptoms. Please contact Lighthouse Vision today for more information or schedule an appointment online.