Dry Eye Isn’t Just “Irritating” — Here’s Why It Happens and What Actually Helps
If your eyes burn, feel gritty, or constantly need drops, you’re not alone. Dry eye is one of the most common reasons patients seek eye care—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
Many people assume dry eye is just a minor irritation or something they have to “live with.” In reality, dry eye is a medical condition, and treating it effectively requires more than grabbing another bottle of drops.
What Is Dry Eye—Really?
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce healthy, stable tears. That problem usually falls into one (or both) of these categories:
Not enough tears
Poor-quality tears that evaporate too quickly
Tears aren’t just water. They’re made up of oil, water, and mucus layers that work together to keep the eyes comfortable and vision clear. When any part of that system breaks down, dry eye symptoms follow.
Common Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye often develops gradually and can be triggered or worsened by:
Prolonged screen use (reduced blinking)
Hormonal changes
Aging
Environmental factors like wind, air conditioning, or dry climates
Certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure meds)
Eyelid gland dysfunction (a very common cause)
In many patients, the underlying issue is meibomian gland dysfunction, where the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked or inflamed. Without enough oil, tears evaporate too quickly—even if your eyes are making enough water.
Why Eye Drops Alone Often Don’t Work
Over-the-counter drops can provide temporary relief, but they usually don’t address the underlying cause of dry eye. Many patients find themselves using drops more and more frequently—sometimes every hour—without lasting improvement.
If the oil layer of your tear film isn’t functioning properly, adding more liquid doesn’t fix the imbalance.
That’s why chronic dry eye often requires a more targeted approach.
What Actually Helps Dry Eye
Effective dry eye treatment starts with understanding your specific type of dry eye. A comprehensive dry eye evaluation may include:
Assessment of tear quality and quantity
Evaluation of eyelid and gland function
Identifying environmental, lifestyle, or medication contributors
Treatment plans are individualized and may include:
Targeted eyelid therapies
Prescription treatments
In-office procedures designed to improve gland function
Lifestyle and screen-use modifications
The goal isn’t just short-term relief—it’s improving the health of the tear system so symptoms improve long term.
When Should You Get Evaluated?
You don’t need to wait until symptoms are severe. Consider a dry eye evaluation if you experience:
Burning or stinging eyes
Grittiness or foreign-body sensation
Redness or fluctuating vision
Eye fatigue, especially after screen use
Dependence on drops just to get through the day
Dry eye tends to worsen over time if left untreated, but early intervention can make a significant difference.
Relief Starts With the Right Diagnosis
Dry eye isn’t “just dryness,” and it’s not something you have to push through. With today’s diagnostic tools and treatment options, most patients can find meaningful, lasting relief.
If your eyes are uncomfortable more often than not, it may be time to look beyond drops and get answers tailored to you. Schedule your dry eye consultation in Santa Monica today
