Managing Dry Eye Disease Symptoms
If your eyes constantly feel dry, irritated, or tired, you may be dealing with dry eye disease, a common condition that affects millions of Americans every year. While occasional dryness can happen due to environmental factors like wind or screen time, chronic dry eye disease requires ongoing management to prevent discomfort and protect long-term eye health. At Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, we understand how frustrating dry eye disease symptoms can be, which is why we’re sharing expert-recommended strategies for managing dry eye disease effectively.
What is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye disease (also called dry eye syndrome) occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears to keep the surface of your eye lubricated. Tears are essential for maintaining clear vision, protecting against infections, and keeping your eyes comfortable. When tear production is disrupted, symptoms like burning, redness, grittiness, and blurry vision can develop.
There are two main types of dry eye disease:
- Evaporative Dry Eye: Occurs when tears evaporate too quickly due to poor oil production from the meibomian glands (common in those with meibomian gland dysfunction or blepharitis).
- Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye: Happens when the eyes don’t produce enough tears due to issues with the lacrimal glands (common in autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome).
Common Dry Eye Disease Symptoms
The symptoms of dry eye disease can range from mild discomfort to severe irritation that impacts daily life. You may experience:
- A gritty or sandy sensation in the eyes
- Burning or stinging
- Redness and inflammation
- Blurred vision that improves with blinking
- Watery eyes (as a response to dryness)
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Eye fatigue, especially after screen use
If left untreated, dry eye disease can lead to chronic inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface, making managing dry eye disease crucial for long-term eye health.
Managing Dry Eye Disease: 6 Effective Strategies for Relief
The good news is that dry eye disease symptoms can often be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes, at-home remedies, and professional treatments.
1. Use Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops
Over-the-counter, preservative-free artificial tears help keep the eyes moist and relieve irritation. Look for eye drops designed for long-lasting hydration and lipid-based formulas if you have evaporative dry eye.
2. Blink More Often (Especially When Using Screens)
Extended screen time reduces blinking, which can worsen dry eye symptoms. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to help reset your blink rate.
3. Adjust Your Environment
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air, especially in winter.
- Avoid ceiling fans, air conditioning vents, and direct wind that can dry out your eyes.
- Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to protect against wind and dust.
4. Apply Warm Compresses
If meibomian gland dysfunction is contributing to your dry eyes, warm compresses can help unclog oil glands and improve tear quality. Use a clean, warm washcloth or a specialized heated eye mask for 5–10 minutes daily.
5. Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Your Diet
Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and support tear production. Add foods rich in omega-3s to your diet, such as:
- Salmon, mackerel, or sardines
- Flaxseeds and chia seeds
- Walnuts and almonds
If dietary changes aren’t enough, omega-3 supplements may also be beneficial. However, you should always consult with your doctor before taking any new supplements to ensure it is safe for you.
6. Avoid Irritants That Worsen Dry Eyes
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, which can worsen inflammation.
- Remove eye makeup thoroughly at night to prevent irritation.
Professional Treatments for Dry Eye Disease
Most at-home remedies help, but if they aren’t providing enough relief, your doctor may suggest these treatments to help manage chronic dry eye disease symptoms effectively.
Prescription Eye Drops
For moderate to severe cases, prescription eye drops like Restasis, Xiidra, or Tyrvaya can help increase tear production and reduce inflammation.
Punctal Plugs
Punctal plugs are tiny silicone or collagen inserts placed into the tear ducts to help retain natural tears, keeping your eyes moist for longer.
When to See an Eye Doctor for Dry Eye Disease
If your dry eye disease symptoms are persistent or affecting your daily life, it’s time to schedule an eye exam. Seek professional care if you experience:
- Severe redness, pain, or swelling
- Increased light sensitivity
- Blurry vision that doesn’t improve
- Eye infections or frequent irritation
At Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, our dry eye specialists will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the root cause of your symptoms and develop a customized treatment plan.
Take Control of Dry Eye Disease Today
Managing dry eye disease requires a combination of daily habits, protective strategies, and medical treatments. Whether you need expert recommendations for artificial tears or advanced in-office treatments, Cascade Eye & Skin Centers is here to help.
Don’t let dry eye disease affect your comfort or vision. Click here to schedule an appointment today to find the right solutions for your eyes and start experiencing lasting relief.
