What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping the eyes lubricated, nourished, and protected. When this balance is disrupted, the surface of the eye becomes irritated and inflamed.

Common causes include:

• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases over time.
• Hormonal changes: Especially common after menopause.
• Screen time: Prolonged computer, tablet, or phone use reduces blinking, which leads to faster tear evaporation.
• Environmental factors: Wind, dry climates, smoke, and air conditioning can all dry out the eyes.
• Medical conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disease often contribute to chronic dry eye.
• Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications may reduce tear production.
• Contact lenses and eye surgeries: These can interfere with the eye’s tear film and natural lubrication.

What Happens if Dry Eye Gets Worse?

Mild dry eye often causes burning, itching, and a gritty feeling, but if left untreated, it can progress into a more serious condition. Advanced dry eye may lead to:

• Persistent discomfort and pain: Chronic irritation can affect concentration, work productivity, and daily activities.
• Blurry or fluctuating vision: Tears help maintain a smooth optical surface. Without adequate lubrication, vision becomes unstable.
• Increased risk of infection: Tears wash away debris and bacteria. Without enough tears, the eye becomes more vulnerable to infections.
• Damage to the cornea: Severe dry eye can cause inflammation, corneal scratches, ulcers, and even vision loss if untreated.

For these reasons, dry eye should never be ignored. Even if the symptoms seem minor, getting an evaluation ensures the condition doesn’t progress.

Dry Eye Treatment Options

The good news is that dry eye can almost always be managed with the right care. At New View Eye Care, we offer a wide range of treatment solutions customized to your specific needs:

• Lifestyle and environmental adjustments: Sometimes simple changes, like using a humidifier, taking screen breaks, or wearing wraparound sunglasses, can make a big difference.
• Artificial tears and lubricating drops: These provide immediate relief for mild cases by supplementing natural tear production.
• Prescription eye drops: Medications such as cyclosporine or lifitegrast reduce inflammation and help the eyes produce healthier, more stable tears.
• Punctal plugs: These tiny, biocompatible devices are inserted into the tear ducts to help tears stay on the eye longer.
• Meibomian gland treatments: If oil glands in the eyelids are blocked (a common cause of evaporative dry eye), in-office procedures can open them and restore tear quality.
• Nutritional support: Omega-3 fatty acids and certain dietary changes may improve tear composition.
• Specialty contact lenses: Scleral lenses create a reservoir of moisture over the cornea, offering both comfort and clear vision for patients with advanced dry eye.

The Role of an Optometrist in Dry Eye Care

A properly trained optometrist does much more than prescribe drops. At New View Eye Care, we begin with a thorough examination, including tear film analysis, corneal staining, and meibomian gland evaluation. This allows us to identify the root cause of your dry eye—whether it’s related to tear production, tear quality, or other underlying health conditions.

From there, we build a personalized treatment plan. We also monitor your progress closely, adjusting care as needed to ensure that your symptoms improve and that your eyes stay healthy long-term.

Why Choose New View Eye Care in Berkley, Michigan?

Dry eye is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and it requires a tailored approach. At New View Eye Care, our modern technology and patient-focused care ensure you get more than temporary relief—you get lasting solutions. We combine optometric treatments with compassionate guidance, helping patients in Berkley and surrounding communities enjoy comfortable vision every day.

Whether you’re dealing with occasional irritation or severe chronic dry eye, our team is here to provide the expertise and care you need.