What Causes Dry Eye?

Your eyes depend on a healthy tear film to stay comfortable, protected, and clear. Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not make enough tears or when tears evaporate faster than they should. When the tear film becomes unstable, the surface of the eye may become dry, irritated, and inflamed.

Patients in Ephrata may notice symptoms related to dry weather, wind, prolonged screen use, or indoor heating and air conditioning. Other contributing factors may include age, allergies, contact lens wear, certain medications, eyelid inflammation, and some health conditions.

Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye does not feel the same for everyone. Some people experience occasional irritation, while others have symptoms that regularly affect their comfort or vision. Signs of dry eye may include:

Burning or stinging

Red or irritated eyes

A sandy or gritty feeling

Excessive watering

Blurry or changing vision

Sensitivity to light

Difficulty wearing contact lenses

Eye fatigue after reading or using screens

Watery eyes may seem unusual with dry eye, but irritation on the eye's surface can trigger excessive reflex tearing. These tears often do not have the proper balance needed to provide lasting lubrication.

Finding the Source of Your Dry Eye

Choosing the right dry eye treatment starts with identifying what is affecting your tear film. During your evaluation at our Ephrata office, our eye doctor may assess tear production and quality, examine the surface of your eyes, and evaluate the oil-producing glands along your eyelids.

These findings help us determine whether your symptoms are associated with reduced tear production, excessive evaporation, clogged oil glands, eyelid inflammation, or another condition. Identifying the cause allows us to recommend treatment that addresses your specific type of dry eye.

Dry Eye Treatment Options

Your treatment plan will depend on the cause, frequency, and severity of your symptoms. For mild dry eye, we may recommend lubricating eye drops, warm compresses, eyelid hygiene, or changes to daily habits and your environment.

More persistent dry eye may require prescription medications or additional therapies designed to improve tear production, support healthier oil gland function, or reduce ongoing irritation. We may also recommend adjustments to contact lens use, nutritional support, or other lifestyle changes. Follow-up visits help us monitor how your eyes are responding and make adjustments to your dry eye care plan when necessary.

Schedule Dry Eye Treatment in Ephrata, WA

Consider scheduling a dry eye evaluation in Ephrata if artificial tears only provide short-term relief or if irritation is affecting your ability to work, read, drive, or complete other daily activities. Evaluating the underlying cause can help us provide more targeted relief rather than simply managing symptoms temporarily.

Contact Duvera Vision Group to schedule a dry eye evaluation and learn more about treatment options that may improve your comfort and eye health. Visit us at 1070 Basin St. SW, Ephrata, WA 98823, or call (509) 766-1880 to schedule an appointment.