Dry eye is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort and potential vision problems. At Seaside Eyecare Optometry, we prioritize eye health by providing personalized treatment options for dry eye to help you maintain clear, comfortable vision.
 

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when the eye's tear film is imbalanced. The tear film consists of three layers—oil, water, and mucus—that work together to lubricate the eyes, keep them moist, and protect them from irritants. If there is an issue with one or more layers, the eye can become dry, leading to discomfort and inflammation.
 

There are two main types of dry eye:
 

• Evaporative Dry Eye: This type occurs when the meibomian glands in the eyelids don’t produce enough oil to prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.

• Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye: This occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough water (the aqueous layer) to maintain proper moisture levels.
   

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

While symptoms can vary in severity, here are the most common signs that you may be suffering from dry eye:
 

• Persistent Eye Discomfort: This can include a burning, stinging, or itching sensation, which often worsens throughout the day.

• Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): Dry eye can make your eyes more sensitive to light, causing discomfort in bright environments.

• Blurry Vision: Vision may become blurry, especially after reading or using a computer for extended periods.

• Redness: Dry eyes often appear red or inflamed, as the lack of moisture irritates the surface of the eye.

• Feeling of Grit or Foreign Body: Many people with dry eye report feeling like something is stuck in their eye, like sand or grit.

• Difficulty Wearing Contact Lenses: Dry eye can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable or even painful.

• Eye Fatigue: Your eyes may tire easily, especially during tasks that require sustained focus like reading or computer work.
   

Personalized Dry Eye Treatment

At Seaside Eyecare Optometry, we provide personalized treatments for dry eye that address the root cause of the condition. For patients with meibomian gland dysfunction, we offer OptiLight IPL, which uses light pulses to reduce inflammation and stimulate the glands to improve tear quality. TempSure Envi is a radiofrequency treatment that applies gentle heat to the eyelids, stimulating collagen production and improving oil secretion for better tear stability.
 

Additionally, TearCare offers a targeted solution by using heat to loosen blockages in the meibomian glands, followed by gentle manual expression to restore natural oil flow. These advanced therapies are designed to provide long-lasting relief by improving gland function and overall tear quality, offering a tailored approach to dry eye management.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Seaside Eyecare Optometry Today

Dry eye is a common but treatable condition. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking professional care is key to preventing complications and improving comfort.
 

If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eye, schedule a consultation with Seaside Eyecare Optometry. Visit our office in San Clemente, California, or call (949) 493-2269 to book an appointment today.