What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough quality tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Colorado's dry climate can make symptoms more noticeable, especially when combined with wind, indoor heating, air conditioning, or extended screen use.

Other contributing factors may include meibomian gland dysfunction, inflammation, allergies, aging, certain medications, and eyelid problems. Because dry eye can have more than one cause, identifying the source is an important part of effective treatment.

Common Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye symptoms can range from occasional irritation to persistent discomfort. You may benefit from a dry eye evaluation if you experience:

Burning, stinging, or gritty sensations

Red or irritated eyes

Watery eyes

Blurry or fluctuating vision

Light sensitivity

Eye fatigue

Discomfort while wearing contact lenses

Symptoms that worsen with screen use or dry weather

Watery eyes can also be a sign of dry eye. When the eye surface becomes irritated, your eyes may produce excess reflex tears that do not provide lasting lubrication.

Personalized Dry Eye Evaluations

At our Westminster office, we look beyond your symptoms to understand what is affecting your tear film. Your evaluation may include an assessment of the ocular surface, eyelids, tear quality, inflammation, and meibomian glands.

We also consider your health history, medications, lifestyle, screen habits, and environmental factors. This information helps us recommend dry eye treatment that targets the specific factors contributing to your discomfort.

Advanced Dry Eye Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of your dry eye. At EyeSight Eyecare, options may include IPL and low-level light therapy, or LLLT, to address inflammation and support healthier gland function.

For patients with blocked meibomian glands, iLux uses controlled heat and gentle compression to help restore the flow of oils that keep tears from evaporating too quickly. Prescription eye drops may also be recommended when inflammation is contributing to chronic symptoms.

Your treatment plan may include eyelid care and other strategies designed to improve tear stability and support healthier oil gland function. Some patients benefit from a combination of treatments or ongoing management to maintain comfortable eyes.

Dry Eye Care Designed Around You

Persistent dryness should not simply be managed with repeated use of artificial tears when an underlying issue may be present. Our team takes a thorough, personalized approach to dry eye treatment in Westminster so we can address the source of your symptoms and help improve your everyday comfort.

Schedule your dry eye evaluation with EyeSight Eyecare at 5191 W 112th Ave, Westminster, CO 80031 by calling (303) 466-9326.