Why Are My Eyes So Dry? Common Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome

Do your eyes constantly feel dry, irritated, or tired? Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. While occasional dryness may seem harmless, persistent symptoms can affect your comfort, vision, and daily activities. At Eye 5 Optical, we help patients understand the causes of dry eye and find appropriate ways to manage their symptoms.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Your tears play an important role in keeping your eyes healthy, comfortable, and properly lubricated. When tear production decreases or the tear film becomes unstable, you may experience dryness, irritation, and blurry vision.

Several factors can contribute to dry eye syndrome, including:

•          Excessive Screen Time: Staring at computers, phones, and tablets reduces how often you blink, allowing tears to evaporate faster.

•          Aging and Hormonal Changes: Tear production can decrease with age, particularly during hormonal changes such as menopause.

•          Environmental Conditions: Wind, smoke, air conditioning, and indoor heating can increase tear evaporation and worsen dryness.

•          Medications and Health Conditions: Certain medications, including antihistamines and some antidepressants, can contribute to dry eyes. Conditions such as Sjögren's disease may also affect tear production.

•          Contact Lens Wear: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods or using lenses that do not fit properly can contribute to dryness and discomfort.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some people experience occasional irritation, while others struggle with persistent discomfort throughout the day.

Common symptoms include burning or stinging sensations, redness, blurry vision, light sensitivity, and a gritty feeling as though something is stuck in your eye. Excessive watering can also indicate dry eye syndrome. When the eyes become irritated, they may produce reflex tears that do not provide lasting lubrication. If these symptoms occur frequently, scheduling a comprehensive eye exam can help identify the underlying cause.

How Is Dry Eye Syndrome Treated?

Dry eye treatment depends on what is causing your symptoms and how severely they affect your daily life. At Eye 5 Optical, we understand that every patient's needs are different, which is why identifying the source of dryness is an important first step.

For mild cases, simple lifestyle adjustments may help improve comfort. Taking regular screen breaks, blinking more frequently, using a humidifier, and avoiding direct airflow can reduce irritation.

Artificial tears may also provide temporary relief by supplementing natural moisture. For patients experiencing persistent or more severe symptoms, additional treatment options may be recommended to improve tear quality, support eye lubrication, or address underlying inflammation. Our team can evaluate your eye health and help determine an appropriate approach to managing your symptoms.

Schedule a Dry Eye Evaluation at Eye 5 Optical

If you're experiencing persistent dryness, irritation, or fluctuating vision, schedule an eye exam with Eye 5 Optical to learn more about personalized treatment. Contact our office in Tukwila, WA, or call (206) 237-6617 to book an appointment today.