Understanding Dry Eye Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors

Dry eye disease is a common and often frustrating condition that affects millions of people, impacting their quality of life and eye health. At Glastonbury Eye Care, we believe that understanding the symptoms, causes, and risk factors associated with dry eye is key to managing the condition effectively and protecting your vision.

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the tears produced are of poor quality. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and providing clear vision. When the tear film is disrupted, it can lead to discomfort, visual disturbances, and even damage to the eye’s surface over time.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye symptoms can vary from person to person but commonly include:

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation

• Redness and irritation

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• A feeling of something "gritty" in the eye

• Eye fatigue, especially after reading, screen time, or driving

• Excessive tearing

• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

Causes and Risk Factors of Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye disease can be caused by several underlying factors, including:

• Aging: Tear production tends to diminish with age, making dry eyes more common in older adults.

• Medical conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and Sjögren’s syndrome can contribute to dry eyes.

• Medications: Certain medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and decongestants can reduce tear production.

• Environmental factors: Exposure to smoke, wind, dry climates, and air conditioning can increase tear evaporation.

• Prolonged screen use: Staring at digital devices often leads to reduced blinking, which can cause or worsen dry eye symptoms.

• Eye surgeries: Procedures like LASIK can sometimes temporarily disrupt tear production.

• Eyelid Problems: Blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction can disrupt the production or quality of tears.

Recognizing these risk factors allows for earlier intervention and more effective management of dry eye symptoms.

Why You Should See an Optometrist 

Seeing an eye doctor for dry eye disease is essential because identifying the root cause is the first step toward effective relief. Dry eye can result from a variety of underlying issues, from meibomian gland dysfunction to autoimmune conditions, and proper diagnosis ensures that the treatment plan addresses your specific needs. Without professional care, dry eye can worsen over time, potentially leading to inflammation, infection, and damage to the corneal surface that may permanently affect your vision. A personalized treatment approach, guided by your eye doctor, not only alleviates symptoms but also protects the long-term health and comfort of your eyes.

Find Dry Eye Relief at Glastonbury Eye Care

Dry eye disease is more than a minor inconvenience - it can have a significant impact on your comfort and your overall eye health. With a comprehensive evaluation and customized treatment options, we can help restore the comfort and clarity you deserve.

If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye disease, contact Glastonbury Eye Care to schedule your dry eye evaluation. Visit our office in Glastonbury or Hartford, Connecticut. Call (860) 791-4600 or (860) 236-5831 to book an appointment today.