Dry Eye Treatment

If your eyes often feel irritated, gritty, or tired, you may be experiencing dry eye syndrome. While occasional dryness can happen to anyone, chronic dry eye is typically a sign of an underlying issue that needs professional care. We specialize in identifying the root cause of dry eye and providing customized treatment plans designed to restore comfort, protect your vision, and improve your quality of life.
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What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping the eyes lubricated, nourished, and protected from infection. When tear production or quality is compromised, it can lead to chronic discomfort, redness, and even blurred vision.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can develop from a variety of factors, including:

• Aging - Tear production naturally decreases with age.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) - Blocked oil glands in the eyelids cause tears to evaporate too quickly.

• Blepharitis - Inflammation of the eyelids that disrupts normal tear function.

• Eye Surgery - Procedures like LASIK can temporarily affect tear film balance.

• Contact Lens Use - Lenses can reduce oxygen flow and tear stability.

• Allergies - Eye allergies can inflame tissues and affect tear production.

• Medications - Antihistamines, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure drugs can cause dryness.

• Medical Conditions - Diseases like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders may contribute to dry eye.
  
  

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Common symptoms include:

• Burning, stinging, or gritty sensations

• Redness or irritation

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Light sensitivity

• Excessive tearing

• Eye fatigue, especially after reading or screen use
  
  

If left untreated, dry eye can lead to chronic inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface.

How Dry Eye Is Diagnosed

At Eyes of San Antonio, our doctors use advanced diagnostic technology to pinpoint the underlying cause of your dry eye symptoms. During your evaluation, we carefully assess your tear quantity and quality, oil gland (meibomian) function, and tear evaporation rate, while also checking for signs of inflammation, Demodex mites, and overall eyelid and corneal health. By identifying the specific factors contributing to your condition, we can develop a targeted and effective treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

Dry Eye Treatment Options

Effective treatment depends on the cause and severity of your dry eye condition. Our customized approach may include:

• Prescription Eye Drops - Medications that reduce inflammation and stimulate natural tear production.

• Nutritional Supplements - Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients to improve tear composition.

• Thermal 1-Touch™ Therapy - An advanced, non-invasive treatment that gently warms and clears blocked oil glands to restore tear film balance.

• Demodex Treatment - Targeted therapies to eliminate mites that can contribute to inflammation and dryness.
  
  

Expert Dry Eye Care in San Antonio, TX

Living with dry, irritated eyes can make even simple tasks uncomfortable. Fortunately, relief is possible with the right care.With modern diagnostics and proven treatment options, relief is within reach. Our optometrists take the time to uncover what’s causing your discomfort and develop a treatment plan that provides real relief and lasting results.

If you’re experiencing persistent dryness, redness, or irritation, contact Eyes of San Antonio to schedule a dry eye evaluation today.