Why Dry Eyes Could Be Holding You Back (and How to Fix It)

Dry eyes may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can affect more than just your comfort. From blurry vision that disrupts daily activities to ongoing irritation that impacts productivity, untreated dry eye can hold you back in ways you might not expect. At Encinitas Vision Optometry, we help patients find relief so they can see clearly, feel comfortable, and get back to living life without distraction.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears isn’t sufficient to keep the surface of your eyes properly lubricated. Healthy tears are essential for clear vision and protecting the eye’s surface. Without them, irritation and vision problems often follow.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Several factors can contribute to dry eye, including:
 

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When the oil-producing glands along the eyelids become blocked or don’t function properly, tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness.

• Environment: Wind, dry air, and screen-heavy lifestyles increase evaporation.

• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune disorders, diabetes, and certain eye surgeries can reduce tear function.

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

Symptoms to Watch For

Dry eye symptoms can vary, but the most common include:
 

• Burning, stinging, or scratchy sensation

• Redness and irritation

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Sensitivity to light

• A feeling of “something in the eye”

• Excessive tearing

The Impact on Vision and Daily Life

Dry eyes don’t just make your eyes uncomfortable - they can interfere with your overall quality of life. Blurry vision may reduce productivity at work, especially for those who spend hours at a computer. Chronic irritation can make reading, driving, or even enjoying outdoor activities difficult. Left untreated, severe cases of dry eye can damage the eye’s surface and increase the risk of infections.
 

Effective Treatment Options

Fortunately, dry eye is manageable. At Encinitas Vision Optometry, we perform a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms, then customize treatment. Options may include:
 

• Artificial tears and lubricating drops for mild cases

• Prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation and improve tear production

• Punctal plugs to help retain natural tears

• Lifestyle adjustments such as blinking exercises, regular screen breaks, and humidifier use

• Advanced therapies or specialty contact lenses for more persistent cases

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation at Encinitas Vision Optometry Today

Dry eye may seem like a small problem, but it can take a big toll on your vision, productivity, and quality of life. The good news is that you don’t have to live with the discomfort. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, relief is possible.
 

If you’ve been struggling with dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation at Encinitas Vision Optometry to find the right treatment for your needs. Visit our office in Encinitas, California, or call (760) 454-4055 to book an appointment today.