🌿 Dry Eye Disease

What Is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease (DED) happens when your eyes don’t make enough tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance causes discomfort, blurry vision, and sometimes even damage to the eye’s surface. More than just an annoyance, dry eye is a chronic condition that can affect your comfort, productivity, and quality of life.

👁️ Why Does Dry Eye Happen?

Several factors can contribute to dry eye, and often more than one is involved:

• Inflammation – Inflammatory markers are commonly found in the tears of patients with dry eye disease. The source of inflammation should be addressed to improve the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.
  
  

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) – Quality tears are produced from the oil glands in our eyelids. These glands can become blocked and or atrophy leading to a poor tear surface and dry eye disease.
  
  

• Environment – Dry air, heating/AC, wind, smoke, or long hours on digital devices often lead to increased tear evaporation.
  
  

• Systemic & Lifestyle Factors – Certain medications, autoimmune conditions, or reduced blinking with screen use can contribute to dry eye disease.
  
  

🎯 Personalized Treatment Plans

Every patient with dry eye disease is unique. Our doctors perform a comprehensive examination that allows us to identify the root cause of your symptoms. We will work to tailor a treatment plan designed just for you. Our goal is to target the underlying problems, which are typically multi-faceted—whether that’s inflammation, tear instability, rapid tear evaporation or gland dysfunction—rather than relying on a “one-size-fits-all” approach.

💡 Treatment Options We May Recommend

• Artificial Tears – Lubricating drops for quick relief and added moisture.There are different products that are better for specific types of dry eye and your doctor will make specific recommendations.
  
  

• Heating Masks – Warm compresses to open blocked oil glands and improve tear stability.
  
  

• Red Light Therapy – Gentle light therapy to support gland health and reduce inflammation.
  
  

• In-Office Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) – Advanced technology to treat inflammation and rejuvenate the meibomian glands.
  
  

• Prescription Therapies – Medications or anti-inflammatory drops tailored to your needs.
  
  

🌎 Lifestyle & Wellness Support

Managing dry eye does not stop in the exam room. Daily habits play a big role in long-term comfort:

• Environment – Use a humidifier, avoid direct air flow, and take regular screen breaks.
  
  

• Nutrition – Omega-3 rich foods (like salmon, walnuts, flaxseed) and antioxidants help reduce inflammation and support healthy tears.
  
  

• Hydration & Sleep – Staying hydrated and well-rested helps your eyes stay comfortable and resilient.
  
  

✅ The Takeaway

Dry Eye Disease is common, but relief is possible. With the right diagnosis, personalized treatment plan, and supportive lifestyle changes, you can protect your eyes and regain daily comfort.

👉 Schedule an eye exam today with Dr. Bellen or Dr. Simic to learn more about your options.