Dry, Grainy, and Tired-Feeling Eyes? It Could Be Dry Eye Syndrome

If you have dry, burning, or gritty-feeling eyes, it’s easy to write off your symptoms as allergies or simply not getting enough sleep. But if those feelings become chronic, there’s a good chance you have dry eye syndrome, a chronic condition that disrupts the normal balance of moisture that keeps your eyes comfortable and healthy.

Dry eyes might not seem like a big deal, but aside from the discomfort they cause, they can also lead to more serious issues, including corneal damage and an increased risk of eye infections. Prompt, regular treatment is essential for protecting your eyes and preserving your vision.

At Vision and Ortho-K Center, Dr. Curtis Frank offers comprehensive care for patients who suffer from dry eye syndrome, relieving uncomfortable symptoms and protecting your eyes from potential complications. Here, learn the basics of dry eye syndrome — why it happens, the symptoms it causes, and what we can do to help. 

Understanding dry eye syndrome

Most people think of tears as a liquid emitted during crying or when your eyes are irritated — but your tears are much more important than that. Your eyes need to be regularly lubricated to ward off germs and stay healthy, and your tears are designed specifically for that job. 

Your tears are actually composed of three layers: 

• The outermost layer that prevents evaporation
• An inner layer that contains proteins, peptides, and nutrients
• A “bottom” layer that helps tears spread across the eye surface

Dry eye is a chronic condition that happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, when the tears aren’t adequately spread across the eye surface, or when your tears evaporate too rapidly. When tear function is impaired, it can quickly lead to dry eyes and, over time, dry eye syndrome.

Risk factors for dry eye syndrome

Several factors increase your risk of developing dry eye syndrome, including:

• Older age
• Female gender
• Certain medications, like antihistamines and some blood pressure medicines
• Medical conditions, like thyroid disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders
• Prolonged use of computers or other activities that reduce blinking
• Eye conditions affecting the eyelids or tear glands

Globally, as many as 50% of people suffer from dry eye syndrome, with higher rates among women and people who use lighted screens, like computers or phones. 

Managing dry eyes

Your tears protect your eyes, and without proper management, dry eye syndrome can increase your risk of infection and eye damage. Our team begins dry eye treatment with a comprehensive eye exam, evaluating your tear film, eyelids, tear glands, and lifestyle to develop a plan that works for you.

Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may include:

• Artificial tears to lubricate your eyes
• Omega-3 supplements
• Medications to improve tear production, like Restasis®

When these treatments don’t provide adequate relief, Dr. Frank may recommend punctal plugs. These tiny plugs are designed to fit snugly in your tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too rapidly.

We also identify lifestyle changes that can help, including limiting your use of computer screens or taking frequent breaks when using your devices. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier in dry environments can help, too.

Relief for your dry eyes

If you have dry eye symptoms, prompt treatment is important for relieving discomfort and preventing potential complications. To learn how we can help, call to request an appointment with Dr. Frank and our team at Vision and Ortho-K Center in Boston and Newton Upper Falls, Massachusetts.