Dry Eye Explained: Causes, Symptoms & When to Seek Treatment

If your eyes frequently feel dry, scratchy, or fatigued, you may be experiencing dry eye syndrome. While it’s easy to dismiss dry eye symptoms as minor, they often signal a deeper issue with your eye’s tear film. At Fresh Pond Eye Care, we’re here to help you understand what’s behind your symptoms and how to find lasting relief.
 

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Age: Tear production naturally decreases as we get older.

• Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD): A common cause of evaporative dry eye, MGD occurs when the oil glands in the eyelids become blocked or don’t produce enough oil to stabilize the tear film.

• Environment: Wind, smoke, air conditioning, and screen exposure can dry out your eyes.

• Health conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome or conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders can contribute to dry eye.

• Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, and certain antidepressants can reduce tear production.

• Contact lenses: Long-term wear can disrupt the eye’s tear film.

• Hormonal changes: Especially common during menopause.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

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

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation

• Redness or irritation

• A feeling of something in your eye (foreign body sensation)

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Excessive tearing

• Eye fatigue, especially when reading or using screens
 

When to Seek Treatment

Occasional dryness may resolve on its own, but persistent symptoms should not be ignored. If dry eye is interfering with your daily life, it’s time to seek professional care. Untreated dry eye can lead to inflammation, corneal damage, and an increased risk of infection.

Schedule an eye exam if you:

• Experience daily or frequent symptoms

• Notice worsening discomfort over time

• Have difficulty wearing contact lenses

• Find over-the-counter eye drops provide little to no relief

At Fresh Pond Eye Care, we can identify the underlying cause of your dry eye and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Options may include prescription eye drops, IPL, punctal plugs, lifestyle changes, or using specialized tear supplements.
 

Find Relief at Fresh Pond Eye Care

You don’t have to live with the discomfort of dry eyes. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, Dr. Wu and our team is here to help restore comfort and clarity to your vision.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a dry eye consultation with Fresh Pond Eye Care and take the first step toward lasting relief. Contact our office in Ridgewood, New York, by calling (646) 481-8579 or Click here to get in touch with us today.