Dry Eyes - Southwest Eye Institute

What Is Dry Eye (Ocular Surface Disease)?

Ocular surface disease, which is often referred to as dry eye, is a very common ocular condition. It can affect anyone, but its prevalence increases with age and it is more common among women. According to analyses from large long-term studies, such as the Physicians’ Health Studies and the Women’s Health Study, in the United States approximately 1.6 million men and 3.2 million women over age 50 experience ocular surface disease (Dry Eye) symptoms.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye disease can cause various symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe irritation that impacts daily life. Common symptoms include:

A feeling of dryness, irritation, or grittiness
Burning or stinging sensations
Fluctuations in vision
Itching or redness
Eye strain or tiredness
Excessive tearing (watery eyes)
Sensitivity to light or wind
Discharge

These symptoms can make wearing contact lenses challenging or performing visual tasks like reading, watching TV, using a computer, or driving. Symptoms may also follow specific patterns, worsening in the morning or late in the day.

The most common form of dry eye, Evaporative Dry Eye, accounts for 86% of cases and is caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). This condition leads to insufficient oil production in tears, causing them to evaporate quickly. Left untreated, MGD can result in permanent gland damage, making early intervention essential to protect your eye health.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Appointment Online

Are you struggling with dry, irritated eyes? Schedule an appointment today with one of our dry eye specialist.

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Advanced Treatments for Dry Eye at The Southwest Eye Institute

At Southwest Eye Institute, we offer advanced, in-office treatments for Dry Eye Disease, including innovative therapies like The TearCare® System. This system intended for the application of localized heat therapy in adult patients, which helps target Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), the leading cause of dry eye. This procedure has minimal downtime. The improvement in most patients can be felt within 1-2 days of the procedure.

Causes and Triggers of Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye disease can result from various factors, including:

Lifestyle: Reduced blinking during screen time or contact lens wear disrupts tear production, worsening symptoms.
Medical Conditions: Glaucoma, autoimmune disorders, and eye surgeries like LASIK can compromise tear health.
Medications: Drugs for glaucoma, allergies, or high blood pressure can exacerbate dry eye.
Environment: Dry climates, air conditioning, and wind increase tear evaporation, especially in areas like in the Southwest.

Understanding these causes can help you manage symptoms effectively and seek treatment to protect your eye health.