Are you dealing with persistent dry, itchy, or irritated eyes? At Opticore Optometry Group in Riverside, CA, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye syndrome to help you regain comfort and clarity. We combine advanced technology with personalized care to provide effective, lasting solutions.

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic condition where your eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears are of poor quality, leading to insufficient lubrication. This condition can range from mildly irritating to severely debilitating, affecting your ability to work, drive, or enjoy daily life. Dry eye syndrome is typically classified into two main types:

Aqueous Deficiency Dry Eye
This occurs when your tear glands fail to produce enough tears, often due to aging, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications. Without enough moisture, the eyes can feel dry, irritated, and uncomfortable.

Evaporative Dry Eye
This type is more common and results from meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where the glands in your eyelids do not secrete enough oil to prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. Factors like excessive screen time, environmental conditions, and contact lens wear can exacerbate this issue.

Book Eye Exam

​​​​​​​Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age.

• Hormonal Changes: Menopause or pregnancy can impact tear production.

• Medications: Certain drugs, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics, can cause dryness as a side effect.

• Health Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Environmental Conditions: Windy, dry, or air-conditioned environments can lead to quicker tear evaporation.

• Lifestyle Factors: Extended screen time reduces blinking, which is critical for maintaining a healthy tear film.
  
  

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms can vary but often include:

• A persistent feeling of grittiness or sand in the eyes

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Eye fatigue, especially after screen use

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Excessive tearing

• Redness or swelling of the eyes

• Light sensitivity

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care to prevent long-term damage.
​​​​​​​