What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. A healthy tear film keeps the surface of the eye comfortable, clear, and protected. When the tear film becomes unstable, patients may experience irritation and changes in vision.

Dry eye symptoms can be temporary or ongoing. Without proper evaluation, it may be difficult to determine whether symptoms are caused by the environment, daily habits, eyelid conditions, tear production, or another contributing factor.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Patients seeking dry eye treatment in Pullman may experience different symptoms depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Common signs include:

Burning, stinging, or scratchy eyes

Redness or sensitivity to light

Watery eyes or excessive tearing

Blurry or fluctuating vision

A gritty feeling or sensation of something in the eye

Discomfort while wearing contact lenses

Eye fatigue after reading or using digital screens

Some people notice symptoms only in certain environments, while others experience discomfort throughout the day.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye may develop for several reasons. Screen use, contact lens wear, aging, certain medications, allergies, previous eye surgery, and dry or windy conditions may contribute to symptoms. Problems with the eyelid oil glands may also cause tears to evaporate too quickly.

Pullman’s seasonal weather, indoor heating, air conditioning, and time spent using computers may further affect eye comfort. Because dry eye has several possible causes, a comprehensive evaluation is important before selecting treatment.

Evaluating Your Tear Film and Eye Comfort

A dry eye evaluation typically includes a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, medications, contact lens habits, and daily environment. Our eye doctor may also examine the eyelids, tear film, cornea, and surrounding structures.

Additional testing may be used to evaluate how many tears the eyes produce and how quickly the tear film breaks apart. This information helps determine which factors may be contributing to your discomfort.

Personalized Dry Eye Treatment Options

Dry eye treatment should be based on the underlying cause rather than symptoms alone. Depending on the examination findings, recommendations may include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, warm compresses, eyelid hygiene, environmental changes, or adjustments to contact lens wear.

Some patients may benefit from treatments designed to reduce inflammation, improve eyelid gland function, or help natural tears remain on the eye longer. We will discuss suitable options based on each patient’s symptoms, eye health, and lifestyle.

When Should You Schedule an Appointment?

Consider scheduling a dry eye evaluation if irritation continues despite using over-the-counter drops, your vision frequently becomes blurry, or contact lenses have become uncomfortable. An eye exam is also important if symptoms interfere with work, school, driving, or other daily activities.

Schedule a dry eye evaluation at Duvera Vision Group to learn more about personalized treatment options. Visit our office at 238 East Main St. Pullman, WA 99163, or call (509) 766-1880 to book your appointment.