Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common eye conditions, often causing discomfort, irritation, and even blurred vision. At St. Joe Vision, our goal is to help patients find lasting relief by identifying the underlying cause and tailoring treatment to each individual.
Here’s what you need to know about dry eye and how to manage it effectively.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears, or when tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to:
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Redness or irritation
- A gritty or sandy feeling
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
Common Causes of Dry Eye
Several factors can contribute to dry eye symptoms:
Environmental factors
- Dry or windy climates
- Air conditioning or heating
- Prolonged screen use
Lifestyle factors
- Contact lens wear
- Dehydration
- Smoking
Medical conditions
- Aging
- Medications such as antihistamines
- Autoimmune disorders
- Hormonal changes
Eyelid issues
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
- Blepharitis
Effective Dry Eye Treatments
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. At St. Joe Vision, we offer a range of solutions, from simple lifestyle changes to advanced in-office therapies.
Lifestyle Tips
- Blink more often during screen time
- Stay hydrated and eat omega-3-rich foods (like salmon or flaxseed)
- Use a humidifier at home or work
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds
Over-the-Counter Relief
- Artificial tears (choose preservative-free if used frequently)
- Lubricating ointments for overnight comfort
Prescription Medications
- Anti-inflammatory eye drops such as cyclosporine or lifitegrast
- Short-term steroid drops for severe inflammation
In-Office Treatments
- Punctal plugs to slow tear drainage
- Meibomian gland expression to treat blocked oil glands
At-Home Care
- Warm compresses to loosen blocked oil glands
- Gentle eyelid cleansing to reduce inflammation and bacteria buildup
When to See an Eye Doctor
If your dry eye symptoms are persistent or severe, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. Left untreated, dry eye can lead to corneal damage and long-term vision problems. At St. Joe Vision, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess tear quality and eyelid health, allowing us to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient.
Find Dry Eye Relief Today
Dry eye doesn’t have to interfere with your daily life. Whether you’re searching for the “best eye doctor in northeast Fort Wayne” or need an optometrist near me who specializes in dry eye treatment, our team is here to help. Contact St. Joe Vision today to schedule your comprehensive evaluation and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.