What Are the Most Common Causes of Dry Eye?


Dry eye is a condition that affects millions of people, causing discomfort, blurry vision, and a reduced quality of life. For patients in El Paso, TX, the dry climate can make symptoms even more persistent. At Eyes of Cimarron, we offer comprehensive dry eye care that not only manages symptoms but also treats the underlying causes effectively.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping the surface of the eyes moist, smooth, and clear. Without adequate lubrication, your eyes can feel irritated, gritty, or even painful.
 

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can be triggered by several factors, including:
 

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): One of the most common causes, MGD occurs when the oil-producing glands along the eyelids become blocked, leading to faster tear evaporation.

• Blepharitis: This inflammatory condition affects the eyelid margins, often due to bacteria or skin conditions like rosacea. It can lead to crusting, redness, and blockage of the glands that help maintain a healthy tear film.

• Age and Hormonal Changes: As we age, tear production naturally decreases. Hormonal changes, especially in women during menopause, can also affect tear quality and quantity.

• Prolonged Screen Use: Staring at digital screens reduces blink rate, which limits tear distribution and contributes to dry eye symptoms.

• Environmental Factors: Wind, dry climates, air conditioning, and heating systems can all accelerate tear evaporation.

• Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can disrupt the tear film and lead to dryness.

• Medications and Medical Conditions: Certain medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs may reduce tear production. Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to dry eye.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Common symptoms of dry eye include:
 

• Stinging or burning sensation

• Grittiness or feeling like something is in your eye

• Redness or irritation

• Excessive tearing

• Blurry vision or eye fatigue

• Sensitivity to light

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms regularly, it’s important to seek professional evaluation.
 

Advanced Dry Eye Treatments at Eyes of Cimarron

At Eyes of Cimarron, we offer advanced, non-invasive therapies designed to relieve dry eye symptoms and address the root causes of the condition, beginning with a thorough diagnosis to determine the underlying cause.

Dr. Karina Quiñones, our dry eye specialist, leads our treatment program and provides personalized care tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy is an effective treatment that targets inflammation around the eyes and helps unclog the meibomian glands. By restoring proper oil flow, IPL improves the stability of the tear film and reduces tear evaporation, providing long-term relief.
 

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) utilizes gentle red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular regeneration and reduce inflammation. This painless treatment supports the natural healing process of the eyes and enhances overall tear film health.
 

Blepharoexfoliation is a deep-cleaning procedure that exfoliates and sanitizes the eyelid margins. It removes debris, biofilm, and bacteria that contribute to gland blockages and chronic inflammation, making it especially beneficial for patients with blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction.
 

Amniotic membranes are used in more advanced or severe dry eye cases. These biologically active tissues promote healing of the ocular surface, reduce inflammation, and help regenerate damaged cells, making them an effective solution for restoring comfort and vision clarity.
 

Achieve Dry Eye Relief at  Eyes of Cimarron

You don’t have to live with the irritation and discomfort of dry eye. At Eyes of Cimarron, we’re committed to helping you find lasting relief with customized care and cutting-edge treatments. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, we’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that restores comfort and clarity.
 

Schedule your dry eye evaluation at Eyes of Cimarron and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable eyes. Visit our office in El Paso, Texas, or call (915) 910-5915 to book an appointment today.