Dry eye syndrome is more than just a temporary annoyance—it’s a chronic condition that can impact your comfort, vision, and overall quality of life. If you’ve ever experienced gritty, burning, or tired eyes, you’re not alone. Millions of people deal with this issue every year. Fortunately, understanding the symptoms of dry eye, its causes, and available treatment options can help you find lasting dry eye relief.
Our Phoenix eye care team at Pearson Eyecare Group discusses further below.
Common Causes of Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance can be triggered by a variety of factors:
Aging – Tear production often decreases with age, especially after 50.
Hormonal Changes – Women, particularly during menopause, are more prone to dry eyes.
Screen Use – Staring at screens reduces blink rates, leading to faster tear evaporation.
Environmental Factors – Wind, dry air, and smoke can all worsen dry eye symptoms.
Medical Conditions – Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome or diabetes may contribute.
Medications – Some antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs affect tear production.
Identifying the root cause is the first step in selecting the most effective dry eye treatment.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms vary in intensity and frequency. The most common signs include:
- Burning, stinging, or scratchy sensations
- A feeling like something is in your eye
- Redness or excessive tearing (as a reflex to dryness)
- Blurred vision or eye fatigue
- Sensitivity to light
If you experience any of these persistently, it’s important to talk to your eye doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Effective Dry Eye Treatment Options
Treatments for dry eye depend on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause.
Common options include:
Prescription Drops – Medications like cyclosporine or lifitegrast reduce inflammation and help increase tear production.
Punctal Plugs – These tiny devices are inserted into tear ducts to retain moisture on the eye surface.
Thermal Treatments – Devices like LipiFlow or iLux target blocked oil glands, a common cause of evaporative dry eye.
Your eye doctor will work with you to determine which approach best suits your needs.
Lifestyle Tips for Dry Eye Relief
In addition to medical treatment, small daily habits can make a big difference:
- Take regular breaks from screens (20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air
- Wear wraparound sunglasses on windy or sunny days
- Stay hydrated and eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Avoid smoke and strong air currents like fans or AC vents
These tips support tear production and reduce irritation, giving you more consistent comfort throughout the day.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes, it’s time to schedule an eye exam with our Phoenix eye care team. Dry eye syndrome can worsen over time if left untreated, and early intervention is key to protecting your vision and comfort.
An experienced optometrist can perform a thorough evaluation and develop a personalized dry eye treatment plan that fits your needs—whether that means medication, in-office therapies, or customized eye care advice.
Dry eyes don’t have to disrupt your life. With the right care, relief is within reach. If your eyes feel tired, irritated, or uncomfortable, call us or pay us a visit for expert help and guidance tailored just for you.