Dry Eye Management

Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people, making it difficult to keep the eyes comfortable and vision clear. While occasional dryness may be manageable, chronic dry eye requires professional evaluation to identify the root cause and determine the best treatment. At Eyes on Painted Tree, our doctors are here to 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 lubricating the eyes, washing away debris, and maintaining clear vision. Without a healthy tear film, discomfort and vision issues can develop.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can result from several underlying factors, including:

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) - Blocked oil glands in the eyelids cause tears to evaporate too quickly.

• Aging - Tear production often decreases with age.

• Blepharitis - Eyelid inflammation can disrupt healthy tear function.

• Eye Surgery - Procedures such as LASIK or cataract surgery may affect tear production.

• Contact Lens Use - Extended wear can contribute to dryness and irritation.

• Allergies - Environmental allergens can inflame and dry out the eyes.

• Medications - Antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants are common culprits.

• Medical Conditions - Autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can increase risk.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

The condition may present with:

• A burning, stinging, or gritty sensation

• Blurry vision that improves with blinking

• Eye redness and irritation

• Sensitivity to light

• Excessive tearing

If you experience these symptoms regularly, it’s important to schedule an eye exam.

Identifying the Root Cause

At Eyes on Painted Tree, we don’t just treat the symptoms - we look for the source of your dry eye. During your exam, our doctors evaluate tear quality and quantity, inspect eyelid and gland health, and look for signs of inflammation or underlying conditions. By identifying the root cause, we can create a personalized treatment plan for long-term relief.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

Treatment depends on what’s causing your symptoms. Options may include:

• Eyelid hygiene - Gentle cleaning routines to reduce inflammation.

• Artificial tears - Lubricating drops to ease dryness.

• Prescription eye drops - Medications that increase tear production or reduce inflammation.

• Nutritional supplements - Omega-3 fatty acids to support tear health.

• Scleral lenses - Special contact lenses that create a protective tear reservoir over the eye.

• Punctal plugs - Tiny devices inserted into tear ducts to slow drainage.

• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy - A modern solution that treats inflammation and Meibomian gland dysfunction.

Trusted Dry Eye Care at Eyes on Painted Tree

Dry eye is not just an annoyance - it can impact your daily comfort and vision quality. The good news is that with the right care, relief is possible. At Eyes on Painted Tree, we take the time to uncover the cause of your dry eye and provide customized solutions to restore comfort and clarity.
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Schedule your dry eye evaluation today and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable eyes.