Dry Eyes: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions for Relief

Do your eyes often feel dry, gritty, or irritated? Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects people of all ages, making daily tasks like reading, driving, or using a computer uncomfortable. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, untreated dry eyes can lead to more significant issues. At Primary Eyecare and Eyewear, we’re here to help you understand the underlying causes, recognize the symptoms, and explore effective solutions to bring you lasting relief.
 

What Causes Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes occur when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is inadequate. This can happen for several reasons, including:
 

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air can cause tears to evaporate quickly, leading to dryness.

• Prolonged Screen Time: Staring at screens reduces blinking, which is essential for spreading tears across the eye's surface.

• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases as you age, especially in women post-menopause.

• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can affect tear production.

• Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can lead to dry eyes as a side effect.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): These glands in your eyelids may not produce enough oil, causing tears to evaporate too quickly.
   

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Dry eye symptoms can vary in intensity but often include:
 

• Persistent dryness or discomfort in the eyes

• A gritty or sandy sensation

• Redness or irritation

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision

• Watery eyes
   

If left untreated, chronic dry eyes can lead to complications, including inflammation, eye infections, or damage to the corneal surface.
 

Solutions for Dry Eye Relief

The good news is that there are many effective ways to manage and treat dry eyes. At Primary Eyecare and Eyewear, we offer personalized solutions designed to address the unique needs of each patient. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, we have options to help you find relief.
 

Artificial tears are often a great starting point for temporary relief. However, it’s important to choose the right type of eye drops for your needs. Preservative-free options, in particular, are ideal for frequent use, as they are gentler on the eyes and less likely to cause irritation.
 

For more persistent or severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary to reduce inflammation and improve tear production. Treatments like cyclosporine (Restasis®) or lifitegrast (Xiidra®) can help restore balance to the tear film, providing long-term relief from dryness and discomfort.
 

For patients who struggle with tear retention, punctal plugs can be inserted into the tear ducts to help keep the eyes moisturized longer. These innovative solutions provide targeted relief and can significantly improve your quality of life.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Consultation Today

Managing dry eyes doesn’t have to be a struggle. At Primary Eyecare and Eyewear, we will conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan.
 

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with Primary Eyecare and Eyewear and take the first step toward comfortable, clear vision. Visit our office in Saint Louis, Missouri, or call (314) 962-1700 to book an appointment today.