If your eyes often feel dry, you know how much it can get in the way of your daily life. Simple things like reading, driving, or spending time outside can be frustrating when your vision feels uncomfortable or unclear.
At the Eye Care Institute in Santa Rosa, California, you’ll find board-certified ophthalmologists and an optometrist who specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye. Serving Santa Rosa and Sonoma County, our team uses proven treatments and services to protect your vision.
Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye can be influenced by a number of factors related to the environment and health that determine tear quality. Tears have three layers:
- A mucus layer,
- An aqueous (watery) layer
- A lipid (oily) layer
If there’s an imbalance in these layers, your vision and the comfort of your eyes may be affected. For example, if the lipid layer is not produced in sufficient amounts, tears may evaporate too quickly. If the lacrimal glands do not produce enough aqueous component, or not enough mucin layer is available to stabilize the tears on the ocular surface, you may develop symptoms.
Dry eye symptoms can include:
- Dry, gritty, or itchy sensation
- Stinging
- Irritation
- Light sensitivity
- Visual fluctuation
- Watery eyes
Poor tear quality can be caused by dysfunction in any of the tear film layers. Often, patients with lid inflammation or blepharitis experience Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a condition that impacts the production of oils in your tears. The most common form of MGD is obstruction of the oil-producing glands in the eyelids. At ECI, we will test your tear quality to determine the causes of your dry eye.
Treating Dry Eyes
Each case of dry eye disease is unique, and we consider the factors causing your symptoms as well as your tear quality to develop a custom treatment plan.
Initial management options include artificial tears/lubricant drops, a lid-cleansing regimen, and nutritional supplements. Additional options include prescription anti-inflammatory drops and ointments, oral medications, and minimally invasive office procedures.
At ECI, we provide the most advanced treatments to address your dry eyes. One of the latest offerings is the TearCare® System, a medical device that provides in-office meibomian gland obstruction removal.
Preventing Dry Eyes
While treatment can relieve symptoms, there are also simple steps you can take to help prevent dry eyes from getting worse. Staying hydrated, taking breaks from screens, and using a humidifier in dry environments can all make a difference. Wearing sunglasses outdoors helps protect your eyes from wind and sun, while being mindful of medications or health conditions that affect tear production can reduce irritation.
Making these small adjustments alongside professional care gives you the best chance of keeping your eyes comfortable.
Why Choose the Eye Care Institute
When it comes to treating dry eye, experience and specialized training matter. Our board-certified ophthalmologists and optometrist bring years of expertise in diagnosing and managing complex eye conditions. Each doctor is dedicated to helping you not only find relief from discomfort but also preserve the health of your vision for the long term.
Serving Santa Rosa and Sonoma County, our practice has built its reputation on professionalism, advanced treatments, and a commitment to patient comfort. From thorough diagnostic testing to the latest in-office procedures, you can trust that your care is guided by a team that prioritizes you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dry Eyes Affect My Vision Permanently?
Yes, if left untreated, dry eye disease can sometimes damage the surface of the eye and lead to long-term vision problems. With proper care, these risks can be reduced, and your eyes can stay healthier over time.
Is Dry Eye Treatment Covered by Insurance?
Many treatments, such as prescription medications or certain procedures, may be covered depending on your insurance plan. Coverage can vary, so it’s best to check with your provider and our office staff for details.
How Long Does It Take to See Results From Treatment?
Relief can start within days for some patients, especially with artificial tears or prescription drops. Other treatments, such as in-office procedures, may take a few weeks before you notice the full benefit.
Are Dry Eyes More Common as You Get Older?
Yes, dry eyes often become more common with age. Tear production can decrease over time, and changes in eyelid or gland function make it harder to keep the eyes well-lubricated. Many people over 50 notice symptoms more frequently.
How Does Screen Time Affect Dry Eyes?
Spending long hours on digital devices can make dry eye symptoms worse because you blink less often while looking at a screen. This reduces the spread of tears across the eye’s surface, leading to dryness, irritation, and blurred vision.
What Is the Difference Between Artificial Tears and Prescription Eye Drops?
Artificial tears are available over the counter and help temporarily lubricate the eyes. Prescription eye drops go further by reducing inflammation or increasing tear production, making them better for long-term management of moderate to severe dry eye.
Get Lasting Relief From Dry Eyes in Santa Rosa
When your eyes feel uncomfortable, the right treatment can make all the difference. Eye Care Institute can help. Call 707-546-9800 today to schedule your eye evaluation and get lasting relief in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County.