Dry Eye Syndrome in Santa Monica
Dry eye is one of the most common reasons patients visit us, and one of the most treatable when the underlying cause is found.
What is dry eye?
Dry eye disease occurs when the eyes cannot maintain a healthy tear film, either because they make too few tears, the tears are of poor quality, or the tears evaporate too quickly. The most common form is evaporative dry eye, caused by meibomian gland dysfunction.
Symptoms
Symptoms often worsen through the day or with screen use.
- Burning, stinging or scratchy eyes
- Redness
- A gritty, foreign body sensation
- Watery eyes
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Light sensitivity
- Contact lens discomfort
Causes
Common contributors include meibomian gland dysfunction, blepharitis, age and hormonal changes, screen use, contact lenses, certain medications, rosacea and autoimmune conditions, and dry or windy environments.
When to see a doctor
If artificial tears have not brought lasting relief, if symptoms interfere with reading, driving or work, or if contact lenses have become uncomfortable, it is time for a dry eye evaluation.
How Sunny Optometry treats dry eye
Our Dry Eye Treatment Center starts with a dedicated consultation and meibography to understand your glands and tear film. From there, we build a personalized plan that may include Lumenis OptiLight IPL, TempSure Envi radiofrequency, low level light therapy, Lash Zest, meibomian gland expression, punctal plugs, prescription medications and at-home care.
Questions, answered
Why are my eyes watery if I have dry eye?
An unstable tear film triggers reflex tearing. Those tears lack the oil needed to stay on the eye, so they spill over without relieving dryness.
Do screens cause dry eye?
Screen use reduces how often and how fully we blink, which can worsen dry eye. Regular breaks and treatment of the glands can help.
Is dry eye permanent?
Dry eye is often chronic, but most patients can achieve lasting relief with the right combination of in-office and at-home treatment.