Dry Eyes: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

What Are Dry Eyes?

Many people experience dryness in their eyes at some point. This condition can be temporary, such as after a long day on digital screens, or chronic and progressive, requiring medical attention. Dry eyes occur when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.

At Dada Laser Eye Institute, Pune, under the guidance of Dr. Jeevan Ladi, we frequently see patients struggling with this issue. The good news is: with the right diagnosis and treatment, dry eyes can be effectively managed.

Causes of Dry Eyes

The problem of dry eyes varies depending on the cause and severity. Some common causes include:

Long hours of computer or mobile screen usage
Aging and natural changes in tear production
Certain medications or medical conditions
Environmental factors like pollution, air conditioning, or dry climates
Post-surgical conditions such as LASIK or cataract surgery (if not managed properly)

Understanding the root cause is the first step towards effective treatment.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Burning or stinging sensation
Redness and irritation
Blurred vision, especially after screen use
Sensitivity to light
A feeling of “something stuck in the eye”

If these symptoms persist, it’s important to consult an eye specialist rather than self-medicating.

Treatment for Dry Eyes

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. At Dada Laser Eye Institute, we offer personalized care:

Artificial tears / lubricating eye drops → For mild cases such as dryness from computer work or reading.
Prescription medications → To reduce inflammation and improve tear quality.
Advanced therapies → Such as punctal plugs or other modern treatments for chronic dry eye patients.

Our specialists ensure you get a tailored solution, not just temporary relief.

Natural Ways to Prevent Dry Eyes

In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle changes play a big role in managing dry eyes:

Stay hydrated: Drink enough water daily. A simple formula → Your body weight × 0.04 (e.g., 60kg × 0.04 = 2.4 liters).
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: After every 20 minutes on a screen, take a 20-second break and look 20 feet away.
Gentle eye hygiene: Remove makeup carefully, especially kajal and eyeliner. Clean eyelids and lashes before bed to prevent bacterial buildup.
Eyelid scrubs: Use diluted baby shampoo or pre-moistened eyelid wipes.
UV protection: Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from harmful UV rays.

When to See a Doctor for Dry Eyes

If your discomfort continues despite using eye drops or lifestyle measures, it may indicate a more serious underlying issue. Dr. Jeevan Ladi and his team at Dada Laser Eye Institute, Pune, specialize in diagnosing dry eye syndrome and offering advanced treatment options tailored to your needs.

FAQ'S

Can dry eyes be permanently cured?

Dry eyes may not always be “permanently” cured, but with the right treatment, they can be effectively managed. At DLEI, we provide long-term solutions depending on the cause.

Are dry eyes linked to LASIK or cataract surgery?

Some patients experience temporary dry eyes after procedures. At DLEI, we use advanced surgical techniques to minimize this risk and provide follow-up care.

When should I consult an eye specialist?

If you experience frequent dryness, redness, blurred vision, or discomfort, it’s best to consult a specialist. Dr. Jeevan Ladi has decades of expertise in managing complex eye conditions, including dry eyes.