07/25/2025
In 2005, the SjĂśgrenâs Foundation requested that Congress officially declare July âDry Eye Awareness Monthâ to increase awareness of dry eye and educate the public about its symptoms and treatment options. The Prevent Blindness organization also designated July as Dry Eye Awareness Month.
Our collaboration with foundations aims to raise awareness about dry eye symptoms and their potential causes. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), a staggering 16 million Americans suffer from dry eyes, a statistic that underscores the importance of understanding this condition. Dry eye occurs when there is not enough tear film produced, the tear film is not draining properly from the eye, or the tear film is of insufficient quality to maintain the eyeâs health.
Risk Factors for Dry Eye
Dry eye is relatively common, and there are many risk factors for dry eye, including:
Inflammation of the eyelids
Being 50 years or older
Medical conditions such as SjĂśgrenâs syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain other autoimmune diseases
Women who are pregnant, on certain types of birth control, hormone replacement therapy, or experiencing menopause are likely to have dry eyes.
Environmental conditions, such as allergies or a dry climate
Certain medications
What Are Dry Eye Symptoms?
Patients with dry eyes complain of:
Gritty, sandy feeling
Itchiness
Extreme sensitivity, especially to cigarette smoke
It feels like particles are in the eye
Redness and inflammation
Transient blurry vision
Stringy mucus
Increased sensitivity to light
If youâre experiencing these symptoms, itâs possible you have dry eye, but other conditions could also be the cause. Itâs crucial to remember that a thorough evaluation by your eye doctor is necessary to determine the exact cause of these symptoms. This professional guidance can provide reassurance and ensure the best course of action, giving you the confidence to seek help.
How Can I Prevent Dry Eye?
There are several proactive ways to manage dry eye symptoms, empowering you to take control of your health and well-being.
Stay Hydrated âHydration is vital! Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated is excellent for your overall health. Itâs also a simple yet effective way to manage your dry eye symptoms, keeping you informed and aware of your condition.
Protect Your Eyes â Protecting your eyes from wind and dust is essential when enjoying activities like biking, hiking, or playing golf outside. Also, donât forget to BLINK when using a computer or digital device!
Sleep â Get plenty of sleep!
How Is Dry Eye Treated?
There are several options for treating dry eye. The dry eye condition is often misdiagnosed and can cause damage to the front of the eye. If you think you may have dry eyes, call us TODAY to schedule an appointment to determine the best treatment option.
