April 20, 2025

If your eyes are frequently red, itchy, or irritated, you may be experiencing more than just temporary discomfort. These symptoms are often signs of Dry Eye Syndrome, a common condition that affects the quality and stability of your tears. While over-the-counter drops may provide temporary relief, chronic dry eye can point to underlying issues that require more advanced care. At East Main Vision Clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the root causes of dry eye to help you find lasting comfort.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This instability in the tear film can cause irritation, redness, and a burning sensation. While environmental factors and age can contribute to dry eyes, two common underlying causes are meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and blepharitis.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and Blepharitis

MGD is one of the most frequent causes of dry eye. The meibomian glands, located in your eyelids, are responsible for secreting oils that prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or underperform, the tear film becomes unstable, leading to dryness and irritation.

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids. It often occurs when oil glands near the base of the eyelashes become clogged, resulting in red, swollen, and itchy eyelids. Blepharitis can worsen dry eye symptoms and requires targeted care to manage effectively.

When to See Your Eye Doctor

Occasional eye dryness can happen to anyone, but persistent symptoms should not be ignored. If you experience any of the following, it is time to schedule an appointment:
 

• Red, itchy, or burning eyes

• A gritty or sandy feeling

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision

• Excessive tearing

Left untreated, Dry Eye Syndrome can impact your quality of life and even cause damage to the surface of the eyes over time.

Advanced Dry Eye Treatments at East Main Vision Clinic

At East Main Vision Clinic, we offer leading solutions for managing dry eyes, particularly when symptoms are caused by conditions like meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and blepharitis.

One of the advanced treatments we provide is iLux®, a targeted, in-office procedure that uses gentle heat and compression to unblock the meibomian glands. This process helps restore the natural oil flow to your tear film, improving tear stability and reducing irritation.

Another option is BlephEx™, a painless deep-cleaning treatment that removes debris, bacteria, and biofilm from the eyelid margins. This is especially effective for patients with blepharitis, helping to reduce inflammation and discomfort around the eyes.

We also offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy, a light-based treatment that targets inflammation and improves the function of the meibomian glands. IPL can provide long-term relief from chronic dry eye by addressing one of its root causes.

These advanced therapies go beyond artificial tears, offering lasting relief and improved eye health for those struggling with persistent dry eye symptoms.

Take Control of Your Eye Comfort

If you are tired of dealing with red, itchy eyes and over-the-counter drops are not doing the trick, it is time to take the next step. We can help identify the root cause of your symptoms and delivering effective, personalized treatment options.

Ready to find lasting relief from red, itchy eyes? Schedule a comprehensive dry eye evaluation at the Dry Eye Center of East Main Vision Clinic for a personalized treatment plan to restore your comfort and protect your long-term eye health. Visit our office in Puyallup, Washington, or call (253) 780-0700 to book an appointment today.