Dry eye affects millions of people and is a top reason for visits to eye doctors—even in sunny
Austin, Texas. If you’re searching for “dry eye treatment Austin” or an “eye doctor near me,”
this guide will help explain what causes dry eye, how it impacts your vision, and what effective
treatments and daily habits can bring relief.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough quality
tears or when tear evaporation is too rapid (Facebook, Wikipedia).

Symptoms include:

  • Persistent dryness, burning, or gritty sensation
  • Blurred vision, red eyes, light sensitivity
  • Tired or irritated eyes
  • Discomfort after prolonged screen use or environmental exposure (Wikipedia)

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Aqueous Tear Deficiency

Reduced tear production—often linked to aging or medical conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome
(Wikipedia).

Evaporative Dry Eye & Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

Blocked oil glands under your eyelids can cause tears to evaporate too quickly (Verywell
Health). MGD is the leading cause of evaporative dry eye.

Environmental Factors

Air conditioning, heating, wind, low humidity, or direct airflow all speed tear evaporation (Mayo
Clinic). Austin’s dry, warm climate often worsens symptoms.

Digital Screen Use

Reduced blink rate while using screens leads to tear film instability—a major contributor to
computer vision syndrome (Wikipedia).

Contact Lenses & Refractive Surgery

Long-term use of contacts or procedures like LASIK can disrupt the ocular surface and nerves
that promote tear production.

Medications & Health Conditions

Certain medications (antihistamines, blood pressure meds, antidepressants) and health
conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes) can impair tear production (Wikipedia).

Hormonal Changes & Aging

Women—especially post-menopause—and older adults often experience dry eye due to natural
tear gland decline (Wikipedia).

Mask-Associated Dry Eye (MADE)

Ill-fitting masks redirect dry air upward—common during recent years (American Medical
Association).

Why Dry Eye Deserves Attention

Beyond discomfort, untreated dry eye can damage the cornea, reduce visual clarity, and even
impact mental health. A recent AAO presentation linked dry eye to depression and chronic
fatigue (American Academy of Ophthalmology). Proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent
complications and improve quality of life.

How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?

Eye care professionals use:

  • Symptom questionnaires (e.g., Ocular Surface Disease Index)
  • Slit lamp exam to evaluate tear film quality and gland health
  • Schirmer test for tear volume
  • Staining tests to assess corneal damage (Verywell Health, Wikipedia, Wikipedia)

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

Lifestyle & Environmental Adjustments

  • Avoid direct airflow from fans, heaters, AC, or hair dryers (Mayo Clinic)
  • Use a humidifier during dry indoor seasons
  • Wear wraparound sunglasses or moisture chamber glasses outdoors (Wikipedia)
  • Fix mask fit to reduce upward airflow (American Medical Association)

Blink Training & Screen Breaks

  • Blink fully while working at screens and take frequent breaks to reduce evaporation (Mayo Clinic)

Artificial Tears & Lubricants

  • Use preservative-free drops if needed more than 4–6 times/day (Mayo Clinic)
  • Ophthalmic gels and ointments may be used overnight

Eyelid Hygiene

Prescription Medications

  • Cyclosporine (Restasis) and lifitegrast reduce inflammation and improve tear quality (Guideline Central)
  • Topical steroids may be used short-term

Tear Retention & Gland Support

  • Punctal plugs to slow tear drainage
  • In-office treatments like IPL or thermal gland expression improve gland function (PubMed, amaEyes, Wikipedia)

Advanced Options

  • Autologous serum drops mimic natural tears for severe cases (Wikipedia)
  • Moisture chamber spectacles and special goggles enhance humidity around the eyes
  • Rare surgical interventions like punctal cautery for refractory cases (Wikipedia)

Daily Prevention Tips

  • Stay hydrated and maintain balanced nutrition to support tear health (Wikipedia)
  • Take dietary omega-3, vitamin A, & D for tear production
  • Avoid known medications that worsen dry eye—consult your physician
  • Control allergies to reduce compounded eye inflammation

FAQ

Q: Can dry eye be cured?
A: It’s usually chronic, but symptoms are well managed with ongoing treatment (Verywell
Health, Facebook).
Q: Are contact lenses bad for dry eye?
A: They can exacerbate symptoms. Frequent lens breaks and proper hygiene help.
Q: Are screen filters effective?
A: Anti-glare filters and blue-light glasses can reduce symptoms when combined with
environmental measures.
Q: Should I take omega‑3 supplements?
A: They may aid tear film quality, but dietary sources are preferable. Discuss with your provider.

When to See an Ophthalmologist

If you experience persistent burning, blurry vision, redness, pain, or light sensitivity—don’t wait.
At Howerton Eye Center in Austin, our board-certified ophthalmologists use advanced
diagnostics to identify and treat the underlying causes of dry eye, tailoring a management plan
that fits your lifestyle.

Relief is within reach—and daily prevention is key. If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms or
want personalized guidance, schedule an appointment with Howerton Eye Center today.
We offer comprehensive evaluations, therapy for MGD, prescription management, and
advanced in-office treatment to help you see clearly and comfortably again.

References