Dry eye is a common condition that happens when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when your tears do not work properly. Healthy tears are important for clear vision, comfort, and protecting the surface of the eye. When the tear film becomes unstable, it can lead to irritation, blurry vision, and ongoing discomfort. We help patients understand the cause of their dry eye symptoms and recommend treatment options based on their needs.

Common Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye symptoms can range from mild irritation to daily discomfort. Some people notice symptoms only after long periods of screen time, while others feel them throughout the day. Common signs include burning, stinging, redness, watery eyes, light sensitivity, blurry vision, or a gritty feeling that makes it seem like something is in the eye.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye can develop for many reasons. Aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, allergies, contact lens wear, and medical conditions can all affect tear quality. Environmental factors such as wind, dry air, smoke, and heavy screen use can also make symptoms worse.

One common cause of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction. These glands help produce the oil layer of your tears, which keeps them from evaporating too quickly. When the glands become blocked or do not work well, tears can evaporate faster and leave the eyes feeling dry, irritated, or tired.