Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing discomfort, irritation, and sometimes blurred vision. It occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly due to an imbalance in their composition.
 

Understanding the Root Cause of Dry Eye

One of the main causes of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands, located along the edges of your eyelids, play a crucial role in maintaining tear film stability. They release oils that create a protective layer over the surface of your eyes, preventing tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands are not functioning properly, tears evaporate faster than they should, leading to dry, irritated eyes.
 

Activities That Can Worsen Dry Eye

•        Prolonged Screen Time: Staring at screens for extended periods reduces the number of times you blink. Blinking is essential for spreading tears evenly across your eyes and preventing evaporation. When you blink less, the tear film breaks down faster, contributing to dry eye symptoms.
 

•        Exposure to Dry or Windy Environments: Spending time in air-conditioned rooms, heated spaces, or outside in windy conditions can cause tears to evaporate more quickly. The dry air or wind strips the moisture from your eyes, worsening dry eye symptoms.
 

•        Contact Lens Wear: Wearing contact lenses for prolonged periods can irritate your eyes and disrupt the tear film. Contacts can also absorb moisture from your eyes, leading to dryness, especially in those already prone to dry eye.
 

•        Smoking and Exposure to Smoke: Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that can irritate your eyes and lead to dry eye symptoms. Even secondhand smoke can worsen dryness and discomfort.
 

•        Air Travel: The low humidity in airplane cabins can dry out your eyes, especially on long flights. This can be especially problematic for individuals already suffering from dry eye, as the lack of moisture exacerbates symptoms.
 

•        Reading for Extended Periods: Similar to screen time, reading for long periods can cause you to blink less frequently, reducing the moisture spread across your eyes and contributing to dryness.
 

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis for Personalized Treatment

Dry eye can stem from various causes, but understanding the root cause, such as meibomian gland dysfunction, is key to finding the right treatment. Proper diagnosis from an eye care professional ensures that you receive personalized care tailored to your specific condition. Treatments may range from warm compresses and artificial tears to more advanced therapies, which helps to unblock the meibomian glands.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with True Vision Optometry Today

If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule an appointment at True Vision Optometry for a comprehensive eye exam and a personalized treatment plan to restore comfort and protect your vision. Visit our office in Montebello, California, or call (323) 403-4116 to book an appointment today.