Restore the Comfort of Clear Vision
At Phoenix Ophthalmologists and Phoenix Eye Doctors, we know how frustrating dry eye can be. Our team can diagnose and manage complex cases, creating comprehensive treatment plans.
Using modern technology and innovative treatments, we can target the root causes of dry eye—helping you feel comfortable and confident again.
Relief starts here. Book your appointment today.
Common Dry Eye Symptoms & Sensations
Dry eye isn’t just about dryness—it’s a condition that comes with various symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms you might experience:
- Stinging or burning
- Blurred vision, especially during long periods of reading or focusing
- A scratchy, gritty feeling, like something’s in your eye
- Redness or irritation, worse in the wind or near smoke
- Discomfort with contact lenses
- Excessive watery eyes
Common Dry Eye Factors & Causes
Dry eye is often caused by multiple factors, including:
- Reduced tear production: Age, certain medications, and autoimmune diseases can decrease tear production.
- Tear film instability: Changes in the composition of your tears can disrupt the tear film, leading to rapid evaporation and eye dryness.
- Blocked oil glands: Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) can prevent the proper flow of oil into your tears, causing them to evaporate more quickly.
- Eyelid inflammation: Blepharitis or ocular rosacea can cause inflammation that disrupts normal tear production and flow.
Understanding Dry Eye & the Tear Film
Every time you blink, a thin film of tears spreads across your eye, creating a smooth surface essential for clear vision. For some, the tear film isn’t produced in the right amount or quality to keep their eyes comfortable and healthy—a condition called dry eye.
The tear film has 3 layers: oily, watery, and mucus. These layers work together to retain moisture, nourish the eye, and keep the surface clean. Maintaining a balanced tear film is key to healthy, comfortable vision.
Dry Eye Treatments
We offer personalized dry eye therapies, from at-home care to in-office treatments, for effective relief that fits your life, including:
- Artificial tears and eye ointments: Designed to help soothe dryness and reduce inflammation.
- Punctal plugs (nasolacrimal duct occlusion): These small devices help prevent natural tears from draining too quickly.
- Medicated eye drops: Prescription eye drops formulated to boost your tear production.
- Omega-3 (fish) or flaxseed oil: These oils help reduce inflammation and support the oily layer of your tears.
- IPL & RF therapy: Using Envision by InMode technology, we provide heat therapies that target the root cause of dry eye for longer-lasting relief.