What Are the Main Causes of Dry Eye? Long-Term Prevention Tips and Options For Relief That Lasts

Dry, irritated eyes are a common complaint for many people living in Alvin. Whether it’s the Gulf Coast climate, long hours in front of screens, or seasonal allergies, dry eye symptoms can disrupt your day and impact your comfort. If you’re dealing with burning, stinging, or blurry vision, you’re not alone. Knowing what causes dry eye and how to prevent it can help you find lasting relief.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping your eyes lubricated, washing away debris, and protecting against infection. When the tear film becomes unstable, you may experience symptoms like burning, stinging, redness, blurred vision, or the feeling that something is in your eye.
 

Main Causes of Dry Eye

• Aging: As we age, tear production naturally decreases, making dry eye more common in adults over 50.

• Screen Time: Staring at computers, tablets, or phones reduces blinking, causing tears to evaporate more quickly.

• Medications: Some antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and decongestants can reduce tear production.

• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune disorders (such as Sjögren’s syndrome), diabetes, thyroid issues, and eyelid inflammation can all lead to dry eye.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): MGD occurs when the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked or do not function properly, leading to an unstable tear film and increased tear evaporation.

• Blepharitis: This is a common condition involving inflammation of the eyelids, which can disrupt the tear film and contribute to dry eye symptoms.

• Hormonal Changes: Women, especially those who are pregnant, using birth control, or going through menopause, are at increased risk.

• Contact Lenses: Long-term use of contact lenses can contribute to dry eye symptoms.

What Can You Do to Prevent Dry Eye?

There are simple steps you can take to help prevent dry eye or reduce its impact:
 

• Take Breaks from Screens: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

• Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air at home or work can help keep your eyes from drying out.

• Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from wind and UV exposure, which can worsen dryness.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Practice Good Eyelid Hygiene: Gently clean your eyelids daily to remove oils and debris.

Advanced Dry Eye Treatments for Lasting Relief

If home remedies aren’t enough, TSO Alvin offers advanced treatments based on your individual needs for long-term dry eye relief.
 

• TearCare® is a non-invasive treatment that uses gentle heat and therapeutic eyelid massage to clear blocked meibomian glands, which are often a root cause of dry eye.

• Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) uses specific wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation and stimulate natural tear production, providing lasting comfort for patients struggling with chronic dry eye.

• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy targets inflammation around the eyelids and helps improve the quality of your tears, making it especially effective for those with meibomian gland dysfunction.

• LipiFlow® combines gentle heat and pressure to unclog oil glands in the eyelids. This treatment helps restore a healthy tear film and can provide long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms.

• MiBo Thermoflo uses consistent, therapeutic heat to melt blockages in the oil glands, which improves tear stability and overall eye comfort.

• Tyrvaya™ Nasal Spray is a prescription option that stimulates your body’s natural tear production, offering an innovative solution for those dealing with chronic dry eye.

These advanced treatments can address the root causes of dry eye and help you achieve effective relief.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation at TSO Alvin Today

Dry eye syndrome is a common but manageable condition. By understanding its causes and taking steps to protect your eyes, you can reduce symptoms and improve your daily comfort. For those struggling with persistent dry eye, advanced treatments can provide long-term relief and help restore your quality of life.
 

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with TSO Alvin to find the treatment that works best for you and experience relief that lasts. Visit our office in Alvin, Texas, or call (281) 331-8681 to book an appointment today.