Dry, irritated eyes can make reading, working at a computer, wearing contact lenses, and even spending time outdoors uncomfortable. While occasional dryness may improve on its own, recurring symptoms can be a sign that your eyes are not producing enough tears or that your tears are evaporating too quickly. At The Eye Man, we evaluate eye health to help identify what may be contributing to dry eye symptoms and determine the appropriate next steps.

What Causes Dry Eyes?

A healthy tear film keeps the surface of your eyes lubricated, comfortable, and clear. Dry eye can develop when there is an imbalance in the amount or quality of your tears.

Common dry eye causes include:

•          Long periods of computer, phone, or tablet use

•          Dry indoor air, wind, smoke, or air conditioning

•          Contact lens wear

•          Certain medications

•          Aging and hormonal changes

•          Eyelid or oil gland problems

•          Some medical and eye health conditions

For people living or working in Manhattan, environmental factors can also play a role. Wind, seasonal weather, indoor heating, air conditioning, and extended screen use can all contribute to dryness and irritation.

Can Screen Time Make Dry Eye Worse?

Digital device use is a common contributor to eye discomfort. When concentrating on a screen, people may blink less frequently or incompletely. Blinking helps spread tears evenly across the surface of the eye, so reduced blinking can allow tears to evaporate more quickly.

Taking regular screen breaks, blinking intentionally, and positioning your monitor appropriately may help. However, ongoing symptoms should be evaluated rather than assumed to be caused only by screen use.

What Does Dry Eye Feel Like?

Dry eye does not always feel simply "dry." Symptoms can include burning, stinging, grittiness, redness, tired eyes, sensitivity to light, fluctuating or blurry vision, and discomfort while wearing contact lenses.

Some people may even experience watery eyes. When the eye's surface becomes irritated, it can trigger reflex tearing, but these tears may not provide the lasting lubrication the eyes need.

When Should You Seek Dry Eye Treatment?

Occasional mild irritation may respond to simple changes such as taking screen breaks or avoiding direct airflow. An eye exam is important when symptoms become frequent, interfere with daily activities, affect vision, or make contact lenses difficult to wear.

During an eye evaluation, we can examine the surface of the eyes, eyelids, tear film, and other factors that may be contributing to your symptoms. Identifying the underlying cause helps us recommend a more personalized approach instead of relying on temporary relief alone.

If dry, burning, gritty, or irritated eyes are becoming part of your daily routine, schedule an eye evaluation with The Eye Man to learn more about your treatment options. Contact our office in New York, NY, by calling (212) 873-4114 to book an appointment today.