Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

If you’ve ever experienced dry, itchy, or irritated eyes, you’re not alone. Here in Gun Barrel City, Texas, where the sun shines bright and the winds can kick up dust, dry eye syndrome is a common complaint. But for many people, it’s more than just an occasional nuisance—it’s a chronic condition that affects daily life. At Gun Barrel Family Eyecare & Dry Eye Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye with advanced solutions.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears isn’t sufficient to keep your eyes hydrated and comfortable. Several factors contribute to this, including:

• Environmental conditions – Gun Barrel City is known for its warm weather, but that also means heat, wind, and allergens can accelerate tear evaporation.

• Aging – Tear production naturally decreases as we get older, making dry eye more common in those over 50.

• Screen time – Whether you're scrolling through your phone, working on a computer, or watching TV, extended screen time reduces your blink rate, leading to dryness.

• Contact lenses – While contacts are a great alternative to glasses, they can sometimes contribute to dryness and discomfort.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) – MGD occurs when the oil-producing glands in your eyelids become blocked or don’t function properly, leading to poor tear quality and increased evaporation. This is one of the most common causes of dry eye.

• Allergies – Seasonal and environmental allergies can cause eye inflammation and irritation, leading to dryness and excessive tearing. Antihistamines used to manage allergies can also contribute to dry eye symptoms.

• Medical conditions and medications – Autoimmune diseases, diabetes, antihistamines, and certain blood pressure medications can all impact tear production.

• Hormonal changes – Women going through pregnancy or menopause may experience dry eye due to hormonal fluctuations.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye can feel different for everyone, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Gritty or sandy sensation in the eyes

• Redness and irritation

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred or fluctuation vision

• Excessive tearing

• A burning or stinging sensation

These symptoms may come and go, but if they persist or interfere with daily activities, it’s time to seek treatment.

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If artificial tears aren’t cutting it and your symptoms are getting worse, you don’t have to suffer in silence. We offer advanced treatments designed to restore comfort and protect your vision.

One of the most innovative treatments we offer is PRP Eyedrops. These drops are rich in natural healing properties that help regenerate damaged tissues and improve tear production. Because they use your body’s own biological components, PRP eyedrops provide a personalized and effective way to address severe dry eye.

For patients with significant ocular surface damage, amniotic membranes offer a powerful healing solution. These biologic tissues are placed on the eye to reduce inflammation, promote cell regeneration, and restore the health of the cornea. This treatment is especially beneficial for those suffering from advanced dry eye or corneal injuries that haven’t responded to conventional therapies.

Another highly effective option is scleral lenses. Scleral lenses are designed to vault over the cornea, creating a fluid-filled reservoir that keeps the eyes continuously hydrated. This not only provides relief from dryness but also enhances vision clarity, making them an excellent choice for individuals with severe dry eye or irregular corneas.

Take the Next Step Toward Comfortable, Healthy Eyes

You don’t have to live with the constant discomfort of dry eye. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, finding the right treatment can make all the difference in your daily life. We take a personalized approach to diagnosing and treating dry eye, offering advanced solutions to restore your comfort and protect your vision.

If dry, irritated eyes are interfering with your day, schedule a consultation with Gun Barrel Family Eyecare & Dry Eye Center for a personalized treatment plan. Visit our office in Gun Barrel City, Texas, or call (903) 418-3300 to book an appointment today.