Understanding Dry Eye Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dry, itchy, or irritated eyes can make daily tasks like reading, driving, or working on a computer uncomfortable. If you live in Overland Park, Kansas, you’re no stranger to seasonal changes, indoor heating, and high pollen counts - all of which can contribute to dry eye disease. At Focal Point Eye Care, we’re committed to helping our community understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for this common condition.
 

What Is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears produced are of poor quality. Tears are essential for maintaining clear vision and keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable. When the tear film becomes unstable, it can lead to inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface.
 

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Age: Tear production naturally declines with age, especially after 50.

• Medical conditions: Autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes can contribute to dry eye.

• Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants can reduce tear production.

• Environmental factors: Wind, dry air, and exposure to screens can increase evaporation of tears.

• Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD): Blocked or inflamed oil glands in the eyelids can cause tears to evaporate too quickly.
   

Recognizing the Symptoms

Dry eye disease symptoms can vary in severity but often include:

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation

• A feeling of something in the eye

• Red or irritated eyes

• Blurred vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Excessive tearing

If you experience these symptoms frequently, it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
 

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

There are several effective treatments available for dry eye disease, depending on the underlying cause and the severity of your condition. Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops are often the first line of defense. These over-the-counter solutions provide temporary relief by adding moisture to the eyes and alleviating irritation. Prescription eye drops may be recommended for more persistent cases. Medications work to reduce inflammation and help the eyes produce more natural tears over time.
 

For patients whose tears evaporate too quickly, punctal plugs can be a helpful option. These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to slow tear drainage and keep the eyes moist for longer periods.
 

Meibomian gland therapy is another common in-office treatment, especially for patients with blocked oil glands. Procedures like thermal pulsation or manual gland expression help restore the natural balance of the tear film by improving oil flow.
 

Finally, lifestyle and environmental changes can also make a big difference. Using a humidifier at home, taking regular breaks from screens, and wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors can help minimize symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
 

Achieve Dry Eye Relief at Focal Point Eye Care

Dry eye disease can impact your vision and overall eye health. At Focal Point Eye Care, our team is dedicated to diagnosing the root cause of your dry eye and creating a personalized treatment plan that works for you.
 

Don’t let dry eyes interfere with your daily life. Contact Focal Point Eye Care to schedule a comprehensive exam and discover the best treatment options for lasting relief. Visit our office in Overland Park, Kansas, or call (913) 341-2323 to book an appointment today.