Daily Habits That Can Worsen Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye syndrome is a condition that affects the eye’s ability to stay properly lubricated, leading to discomfort and irritation. Tears play a crucial role in keeping your eyes healthy and vision clear, but when tear production is insufficient or the quality of tears is poor, the delicate surface of the eyes can become dry and inflamed. Understanding dry eye syndrome is the first step toward finding relief and protecting your long-term eye health.
 

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the quality of tears is insufficient to keep the surface of your eyes properly lubricated. This can lead to discomfort, redness, a gritty sensation, and even blurred vision. Dry eye syndrome can be caused by various factors, including aging, prolonged screen time, environmental conditions, certain medications, and underlying health conditions like meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
 

While certain environmental factors or medical conditions can contribute to dry eyes, daily habits can significantly worsen symptoms. Understanding these habits—and knowing how to address them—can help protect your eyes and improve your overall comfort.
 

Excessive Screen Time

Spending long hours in front of digital screens reduces the frequency of blinking, which can cause your tears to evaporate faster. This leads to increased dryness and irritation.
 

Tip: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break.
 

Dehydration

Not drinking enough water can reduce tear production, as your body prioritizes hydration for vital functions. Chronic dehydration can exacerbate dry eye symptoms over time.
 

Tip: Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, as these can dehydrate you.
 

Overuse of Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses for extended periods or sleeping in them can cause significant discomfort and worsen dry eye symptoms by reducing oxygen flow to the eyes.
 

Tip: Use contacts as directed by your eye doctor and consider switching to daily disposable lenses or scleral lenses if dryness persists.
 

Ignoring Eyelid Hygiene

Oil and debris can build up along the edges of your eyelids, blocking the meibomian glands that help maintain a healthy tear film. Poor eyelid hygiene can lead to increased irritation and dryness.
 

Tip: Gently clean your eyelids daily with a warm, moist cloth or an eyelid cleanser recommended by your eye doctor.
 

When to See an Eye Doctor

If you experience persistent dryness, redness, irritation, or blurry vision, it’s time to see an eye doctor. Dry eye symptoms that interfere with daily activities or don’t improve with simple remedies may require professional care.
 

At Avant Eyes Optometry, we offer advanced, personalized solutions for managing dry eye syndrome. After a thorough evaluation, your eye doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
 

• Prescription Eye Drops: Medications tailored to reduce inflammation and increase tear production.

• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: A non-invasive treatment that targets meibomian gland dysfunction and reduces inflammation.

• Microblepharoexfoliation: A treatment to clean and exfoliate the eyelid margins, promoting better gland function.

• Punctal Plugs: Tiny inserts placed in your tear ducts to retain natural tears and keep your eyes moist.

• Amniotic Membrane Therapy: A regenerative treatment that promotes healing of the eye's surface.

• Autologous Serum Drops: Eye drops made from your own blood serum to provide natural, customized relief.
   

Finding Dry Eye Relief at Avant Eyes Optometry

Dry eye syndrome doesn’t have to control your life. By identifying and adjusting daily habits, staying hydrated, and seeking professional care when necessary, you can achieve lasting relief. We are is here to provide expert guidance and personalized treatments to help your eyes feel their best.
 

If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms, schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Avant Eyes Optometry for effective relief. Visit our office in Porter Ranch, California, or call ( 818) 900-5650 to book an appointment today.