What Causes Dry Eye and Why It’s More Than Just a Minor Irritation

Many people experience occasional dry eyes, but when it becomes frequent or persistent, it’s more than just an inconvenience. Dry eye syndrome can affect your daily comfort, your vision, and even the long-term health of your eyes. Understanding the causes and knowing when to see your eye doctor is essential for protecting your vision.
 

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Several factors can contribute, including:
 

•          Aging - Tear production naturally decreases as we get older.

•          Environmental conditions - Wind, smoke, and dry climates can speed up tear evaporation.

•          Screen use - Staring at computers or digital devices often reduces blinking, leading to dryness.

•          Contact lenses - Wearing lenses can sometimes contribute to dry eye symptoms.

•          Medications and health conditions - Certain prescriptions and conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders may affect tear quality.
 

The Role of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

A common but often overlooked cause of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands line your eyelids and produce oils that keep tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands are blocked or not working properly, it leads to unstable tears and persistent dryness. MGD is one of the leading causes of chronic dry eye and requires professional diagnosis and treatment.
 

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Dry eye may seem minor, but symptoms can interfere with everyday life. These may include:
 

•          Burning, stinging, or scratchy eyes

•          Redness or irritation

•          Blurry or fluctuating vision

•          Sensitivity to light

•          A gritty sensation, as if something is in your eye
 

If left untreated, dry eye can worsen and even damage the surface of your eyes.
 

Why You Should See Your Eye Doctor

While over-the-counter drops may provide temporary relief, they don’t address the underlying cause. An optometrist can evaluate your tear quality, check for MGD, and recommend advanced treatments that go beyond artificial tears. These may include in-office therapies designed to restore gland function, prescription eye drops, or customized treatment plans.
 

Restore Comfort and Clarity with Texas State Optical

Dry eye isn’t just a small irritation - it’s a medical condition that can affect your comfort, clarity, and quality of life. With the right diagnosis and care, you don’t have to live with constant dryness or irritation.
 

Contact Texas State Optical to schedule a consultation and find lasting relief for your dry eyes. Visit our office Round Rock, Texas, or call (512) 828-5500 to book an appointment today.