Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Dry, irritated eyes are more than just a minor annoyance. For many people, Dry Eye Syndrome is a chronic condition that can interfere with daily activities like reading, working on a computer, or driving at night. At See-N-Focus Optical, we help patients understand the root cause of their dry eye symptoms and offer advanced treatment solutions designed for lasting relief.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Healthy tears are essential for maintaining clear vision, comfort, and overall eye health. When the tear film becomes unstable, it can lead to inflammation and damage to the surface of the eye.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye often develops due to a combination of factors, including:

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

•           Excessive screen time and reduced blinking

•           Environmental factors such as dry air, wind, smoke, or air conditioning

•           Contact lens wear

•           Hormonal changes, including menopause

•           Certain medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications

•           Underlying health conditions, including autoimmune diseases

Identifying the underlying cause is critical to choosing the most effective treatment.

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

•           Dryness, burning, or stinging sensations

•           Gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes

•           Redness or irritation

•           Excessive tearing

•           Blurred or fluctuating vision

•           Sensitivity to light

•           Eye fatigue, especially after screen use

If left untreated, dry eye can worsen over time and lead to chronic inflammation or damage to the eye’s surface.

Effective Solutions for Dry Eye Relief

At See-N-Focus Optical, dry eye treatment is never one-size-fits-all. We create customized treatment plans based on the severity and cause of your condition. Treatment options may include:

Lifestyle and At-Home Therapies

•           Artificial tears or prescription eye drops

•           Warm compresses and lid hygiene

•           Nutritional support, including omega-3 supplements

Advanced Dry Eye Treatment: iLight IPL Therapy

For patients with moderate to severe dry eye - especially those with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction - iLight IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy can be a highly effective solution.

iLight IPL works by:

•           Reducing inflammation around the eyelids

•           Targeting abnormal blood vessels that contribute to chronic inflammation

•           Improving the function of the meibomian glands

•           Enhancing tear quality and stability

This non-invasive treatment is quick, comfortable, and performed right in our office. Many patients notice improvement after just a few sessions, with continued relief over time.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation Today

Dry Eye Syndrome can significantly impact your quality of life, but effective relief is possible with the right care. By identifying the root cause and offering advanced treatments like iLight IPL, we help patients achieve healthier, more comfortable vision.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye, the team at See-N-Focus Optical is here to help. Schedule a dry eye evaluation to determine the best treatment plan for your needs and find out if iLight IPL therapy is right for you. Visit our office in Houston, Texas, or call (713) 941-7190 to book an appointment today.