By the end of a long workday, you probably blame your tired, irritated eyes on “too much screen time” and move on. You rub them. You blink hard. Maybe you reach for a bottle of eye drops buried in a desk drawer.
This discomfort isn’t just due to fatigue. It is more likely ocular surface disease, more commonly known as dry eye disease. And according to Dr. Tara Parnell of Perceptions Eye Health and Wellness, it’s far more than a minor annoyance.
“Dry eyes can interfere with your vision and impact your quality of life,” Dr. Parnell says.
Dry eye disease is increasingly common, not just among older adults.
It has often been associated with aging, particularly in people experiencing hormonal changes.
But today’s digital lifestyle has expanded the demographic. Younger patients are showing symptoms after spending hours each day staring at phones, tablets, or computer screens. When we focus on screens, we blink less frequently and less completely, disrupting the delicate tear film that keeps our eyes lubricated. And according to Dr. Parnell, less blinking is a primary cause of tear evaporation leading to common symptoms such as redness, irritation, burning, scratchiness and overall discomfort and intermittent blurry vision.
And of course, spring is the season that exacerbates dry eye issues due to increased pollen in the air and seasonal allergies.
The two most common types of dry eye disease are:
- Aqueous deficient dry eye, when the eyes do not produce enough tears.
- Evaporative dry eye, when there isn’t stability of the tears due to obstructed or stagnant oil glands. This causes the tears to evaporate too quickly.
Often, patients experience a combination of both types. Thankfully, there are numerous treatment modalities available that address the underlying root cause of dry eye, instead of just treating the symptoms.
New Treatment
One of the most innovative additions to Dr. Parnell’s office is Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT).
LLLT uses specific wavelengths of red and infrared light to stimulate cellular function and improve the health of the oil glands responsible for producing the oil layer of the tear film. That oil layer is crucial, as it helps to protect and lubricate the eyes.
During treatment, patients receive calibrated red light therapy sessions designed to reduce inflammation and support gland health. It is a natural, comfortable, pain-free treatment that gives long-lasting relief. Other benefits are improved skin tone and appearance, which is a side effect that most people love!
Everyday Changes Make a Difference
Dr. Parnell emphasizes that daily habits matter, too. For patients experiencing dry eye symptoms, she advises lifestyle adjustments that can help:
- Use lubricating eye drops to help nourish and protect the surface of the eye.
- Apply heat masks over the eyes to help loosen thickened oils and stimulate oil gland secretions and flow.
- Reduce screen time when possible and take frequent breaks. Remember to blink!
- Stay hydrated, as overall fluid intake impacts tear production.
- Use an air purifier in spaces where you spend extended periods, especially in environments with dry air, dust, or allergens.
- Avoid ceiling fans and vents at night while sleeping
- Avoid certain medications known to cause or contribute to dry eye syndrome.
These changes may seem simple, but in combination, they can significantly reduce the symptoms of dry eye.
Coming next month: A deeper look at advanced treatments for dry eye disease.
