Dry eye becomes more common with age, and symptoms can gradually become harder to ignore over time. Many adults notice burning, watery eyes, blurry vision, redness, or irritation that seems worse while reading, using screens, or wearing contact lenses.
In this blog, we explain why dry eye develops as you get older, what symptoms to watch for, and the dry eye treatment options that can help improve comfort and visual stability.
What causes dry eye as you age?
Dry eye often develops gradually, which is why many people don’t realize how much it’s changed until symptoms become more noticeable. As we age, the eyes may produce fewer tears, and the quality of those tears can decrease as well.
Other common contributors include:
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medications
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (oil gland blockage)
- Increased screen time and reduced blinking
- Environmental exposure to wind, air conditioning, heat, or dry indoor air
- Long-term contact lens wear
It’s also common for more than one of these factors to happen at the same time.
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
Dry eye symptoms can vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:
- Burning or stinging eyes
- A gritty or sandy sensation
- Redness
- Excessive tearing
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Light sensitivity
- Eye fatigue
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably
Some people are surprised to learn that watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eye. When the eyes become irritated, they may produce reflex tears that do not provide lasting moisture or relief.
Can dry eye affect vision?
Yes, healthy tears are important for maintaining clear, stable vision. When the tear film becomes unstable, vision may appear blurry or fluctuate throughout the day.
Dry eye can also make everyday activities less comfortable, including:
- Reading
- Driving
- Working on a computer
- Watching television
- Wearing contact lenses
For some people, symptoms become especially noticeable in the evening or during allergy season.
How is dry eye diagnosed?
A comprehensive eye exam can help determine whether dry eye is contributing to irritation, blurry vision, or discomfort. During the exam, your eye doctor may evaluate tear quantity and quality, eyelid health, meibomian gland function, corneal surface health, and inflammation levels.
Identifying the underlying cause is an important part of developing an effective dry eye treatment plan.
Treatment options for dry eyes
Dry eye care is most effective when it’s tailored to what your eyes need, whether that’s improving tear quality, calming inflammation, or supporting healthier eyelid function. Many patients experience substantial relief once the underlying cause is addressed rather than just the symptoms.
Treatment options may include:
- Prescription medications, eye drops, warm compresses, and lifestyle changes to support tear production and improve everyday comfort
- In-office therapies such as BlephEx®, IPL therapy, CAM360 AmnioGraft™ amniotic membrane, LACRIFILL®, and TearCare® treatment to target inflammation, improve oil gland function, and promote a healthier tear film
When to schedule an eye exam
Dry eye symptoms that persist or interfere with daily comfort could mean you have chronic dry eye and require professional care. During a comprehensive eye exam, we can identify the cause and recommend the next steps, so your eyes feel more comfortable again.
Comfort-focused dry eye care in Keene
Dry eye doesn’t just affect your eyes. It can affect how you feel throughout the day, especially when symptoms keep coming back. With the right care plan, many patients experience improved comfort, clearer vision, and less irritation every day.
At New England EyeWorks in Keene, our eye doctors begin with a comprehensive eye exam and then create a personalized treatment plan designed around your symptoms, lifestyle, and long-term eye health. Schedule an appointment today to get started with care tailored to your eyes and comfort needs.