Why Dry Eye Is More Common Than You Think

If your eyes often feel gritty, irritated, or watery, you’re not alone. Millions of people experience symptoms of dry eye every day and many don’t realize just how common this condition has become. At Maxivision Eye Care, our eye doctor in Naperville frequently sees patients struggling with the effects of dry eye, and understanding the causes is the first step toward relief.

 

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor. Common causes include:

•          Screen time: Spending long hours in front of computers or phones reduces how often you blink, leading to faster tear evaporation.

•          Age: Tear production naturally decreases as we get older, making dry eye more prevalent among adults over 50.

•          Environment: Exposure to wind, smoke, and dry indoor air can contribute to tear film instability.

•          Contact lens wear: Extended wear can disrupt tear balance and irritate the eyes.

•          Medical conditions and medications: Certain health issues like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases - as well as medications like antihistamines or antidepressants - can increase your risk.

•          Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When the tiny glands along your eyelids become blocked or inflamed, they fail to produce enough of the oil layer that prevents tears from evaporating too quickly. MGD is one of the most common underlying causes of chronic dry eye.

•          Blepharitis: This condition, characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margins, can interfere with tear film quality and worsen dry eye symptoms.

 

The Hidden Impact of Dry Eye

Dry eye isn’t just uncomfortable - it can affect your daily life in surprising ways. Blurred vision, light sensitivity, and eye fatigue can make reading, driving, and computer work challenging. If left untreated, chronic dryness can even damage the corneal surface and increase your risk of infection.

 

Advanced Dry Eye Treatment in Naperville

The good news is that relief is within reach. At Maxivision Eye Care, we offer personalized dry eye treatment in Naperville tailored to your specific symptoms and tear composition. After a comprehensive eye exam, our eye doctor can recommend solutions such as artificial tears, prescription drops, punctal plugs, or advanced in-office therapies designed to restore moisture and comfort to your eyes.

 

Find Lasting Relief from Dry Eye Today

Dry eye is far more common than many realize, but it doesn’t have to disrupt your life. With the right diagnosis and care, you can regain clear, comfortable vision.

Schedule your dry eye evaluation at Maxivision Eye Care and take the first step toward more comfortable vision. Visit our office in Naperville, Illinois, or call (630) 904-1900 to book your appointment today.