Dry eye is a common condition that can cause discomfort, blurry vision, and even make everyday tasks like reading or working on a computer difficult. Whether your symptoms are caused by screen time, weather, aging, or an underlying health issue, finding quick and effective relief is essential. 
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor. Tears are essential for keeping the surface of the eyes smooth, clear, and comfortable. When the tear film becomes unstable, it can lead to symptoms like burning, stinging, redness, a gritty sensation, or blurred vision. Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, screen use, certain medications, medical conditions, or environmental triggers. Left untreated, it can interfere with daily activities and impact your overall eye health.

Over-the-Counter Lubricating Drops

Artificial tears are often the first line of defense against dry eye. These over-the-counter eye drops provide immediate moisture and can be used throughout the day. Look for preservative-free options if you need to apply them frequently. While these drops don’t address the root cause, they can offer quick, temporary relief from burning, stinging, and irritation.

Warm Compresses

Using a warm compress over your closed eyelids helps to loosen clogged oil glands, which are essential for maintaining a healthy tear film. This simple at-home remedy improves tear quality and provides soothing relief. It’s especially helpful if your dry eye is caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Prescription Eye Drops

For more persistent cases, prescription drops can provide longer-term relief by reducing inflammation in the tear glands. While they don’t work instantly, they’re often part of a broader dry eye management plan and can lead to noticeable improvement over time.

Punctal Plugs

If your eyes are not retaining tears properly, your optometrist may recommend punctal plugs. These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage and help keep tears on the surface of your eyes longer. This in-office procedure can offer fast and lasting relief, especially for moderate to severe dry eye.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy

IPL therapy is an advanced, non-invasive treatment used for dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. It targets inflammation and improves gland function, often leading to dramatic symptom relief in just a few sessions. Patients typically experience improvements in both comfort and visual clarity.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

The best dry eye treatment depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms. At Eyes on Butterfield, we begin with a thorough eye exam and dry eye evaluation to pinpoint the root issue and build a personalized treatment plan that brings fast, lasting relief.

Find Dry Eye Relief at Eyes on Butterfield

If you’re struggling with dry, irritated eyes, you don’t have to suffer in silence. From fast-acting at-home solutions to advanced in-office treatments, relief is within reach. The key is identifying the underlying cause and finding the right treatment for your needs.

Contact Eyes on Butterfield to schedule your dry eye evaluation and get started on a path to lasting comfort. Visit our office in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, or call (630) 519-6060 to book an appointment today.