Dry Eye: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Lifestyle in Phoenix, Arizona

by | Aug 24, 2023 | Eye Diseases

Dry Eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common ocular condition that affects millions of individuals globally. It occurs when the eyes fail to produce sufficient tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Vision issues, discomfort, and irritability may result from this.. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Dry Eye causes, symptoms, treatment options, and effective lifestyle management, particularly in the sunny city of Phoenix, Arizona.

Dry Eye Causes:

Dry Eye can stem from various factors, including environmental conditions, aging, medical conditions, and lifestyle habits. Prolonged screen time, exposure to dry and windy climates, and certain medications can contribute to its development. Additionally, medical conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis are known to increase the risk of Dry Eye.

Dry Eye Symptoms:

The symptoms of Dry Eye can range from mild discomfort to significant irritation. Common symptoms include redness, a gritty sensation, burning, itching, and blurry vision.

Dry Eye Treatment:

Effective treatment of Dry Eye involves a multi-faceted approach. Artificial tears, available in various formulations, can provide temporary relief by lubricating the eyes.Prescription eye drops may be suggested in more severe situations to lessen irritation and encourage tear production. Procedures like punctal plugs, which block tear drainage, can also be effective in maintaining tear film.

Chronic Dry Eyes:

Chronic Dry Eye is a persistent condition that requires ongoing management. Individuals with chronic Dry Eye should work closely with their eye care professionals to determine the best treatment plan. Regular follow-up appointments can help monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed.

Dry Eye Remedies:

Apart from medical interventions, several home remedies can provide relief. Warm compresses can help open up oil glands in the eyelids, improving tear quality. Staying hydrated, using humidifiers, and taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements can also contribute to alleviating Dry Eye symptoms.

Dry Eye Prevention:

Preventing Dry Eye involves being mindful of environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Protecting your eyes from wind and harsh sunlight, taking breaks during screen time, and staying hydrated can all contribute to preventing Dry Eye.

Dry Eye Management:

Managing Dry Eye goes beyond just treating symptoms. It’s about adopting a holistic approach that includes regular eye exams, consistent use of prescribed medications, and making necessary lifestyle adjustments.

Dry Eye Relief:

Finding relief from Dry Eye can significantly improve your quality of life. By working closely with your eye care specialist and following their recommendations, you can experience a noticeable reduction in discomfort and irritation.

Dry Eye Drops:

Artificial tears, available over-the-counter, are a common way to relieve Dry Eye symptoms. They mimic natural tears and provide immediate relief from dryness and irritation.

Dry Eye Diagnosis:

A comprehensive eye exam is crucial for an accurate diagnosis of Dry Eye. Your eye care professional will assess tear production, evaluate the quality of tears, and examine the ocular surface for any signs of inflammation.

Dry Eye Risk Factors:

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing Dry Eye. These include age, gender (women are more prone), certain medical conditions, medications, and environmental factors.

Dry Eye Complications:

Untreated Dry Eye can lead to complications such as corneal abrasions, eye infections, and even vision impairment. To avoid these consequences, it is crucial to get treatment as soon as possible.

Dry Eye Discomfort and Solutions:

The discomfort caused by Dry Eye can be challenging to endure. However, with a combination of medical interventions, lifestyle changes, and home remedies, significant relief is achievable.

Dry Eye Therapies:

Advanced therapies like intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments have shown promising results in managing Dry Eye symptoms. IPL helps reduce inflammation and improve oil gland function.

Dry Eye Irritation and Sensitivity:

Dry Eye often leads to eye irritation and heightened sensitivity to light. Wearing sunglasses when outdoors and using lubricating eye drops can mitigate these symptoms.

Dry Eye Inflammation and Syndrome:

Inflammation is a common underlying factor in Dry Eye syndrome. Anti-inflammatory medications and treatments can help manage inflammation and provide relief.

Dry Eye Care and Technologies:

Proper eye care is essential for managing Dry Eye. Innovative technologies, such as tear osmolarity measurement devices, aid in assessing tear quality and guiding treatment decisions.

Dry Eye Lifestyle in Phoenix, Arizona:

Living with Dry Eye in Phoenix, Arizona, comes with unique challenges due to the arid climate. Staying hydrated, wearing wraparound sunglasses, and using humidifiers indoors are valuable strategies for managing Dry Eye symptoms.

The Phoenix Perspective: Dry Eye in Arizona:

The dry and sunny climate of Phoenix can exacerbate Dry Eye symptoms. Taking proactive measures, such as using lubricating eye drops regularly and protecting your eyes from UV rays, is vital.

Tatum Eyecare is North Phoenix’s premier family eye care center. We’ve spared no expense to create the most pleasant, comfortable patient experience… including the finest furnishings, the best selection of prescription eyeglass frames, the most cutting-edge technology, and the most outstanding team of industry professionals. Come see why the choice for family eye care in the Valley has never been clearer.

Dr. Bryan Fuller

Dr. Bryan Fuller of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
Dr. Fuller grew up in Issaquah, Washington and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University. He decided to ditch the calculator and trade it in for a phoropter and slit lamp. He headed east to The Ohio State University where he received his Optometry degree in 1998. Go Bucks! Not wanting to return to the gray of Washington, after graduation, he headed southwest to sunny Arizona. Shortly thereafter he met Dr. McPhelan and they partnered up at their original location, Optical Illusions. With the success of the first location, the two doctors opened up their north location, Optique at the Ridge. After many years of operating the two locations, it was time for an upgrade. In 2016 they merged the two locations into their larger and current location, Tatum Eyecare! When not at the office, Dr. Fuller enjoys spending his free time with his amazing wife and two boys. Dr. Fuller holds the following degrees:

Ohio State University - Doctorate of Optometry
Washington State University - B.S. Mechanical Engineering

Dr. James McPhelan

Dr. James McPhelan of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
Dr. McPhelan grew up in Southern California and enlisted in the Army at age 17. He graduated from Southern California College of Optometry in 1976, then started practicing optometry in Arizona in 1977. Over the next few years, he grew 20/20 Eye Care to 15 offices. In 1999, he and Dr. Fuller took over Optical Illusions, then opened Optique at the Ridge. In 2016, they created Tatum Eyecare. In his spare time, Dr. McPhelan is an avid golfer, often competing in multiple tournaments through the year. Dr. McPhelan holds the following degrees:


Southern California College of Optometry - Doctorate of Optometry

Dr. Houle

Dr. Houle
Dr. Houle is following in her father's footsteps as an optometrist. She is a North Dakota native who received her Bachelor's degree from the University of North Dakota before earning her Doctorate of Optometry from Midwestern University - Arizona College of Optometry. Dr. Houle began her career in eye care more than 10 years ago, and she worked as a receptionist, optician, and technician before becoming an optometrist. She has a particular interest in the management of ocular disease including dry eye and glaucoma. In her free time, Dr. Houle is an avid baseball fan (go Twins!) and spends as much time as possible with her friends and family in both Arizona and North Dakota.

Midwestern University – Arizona College of Optometry - Doctorate of Optometry
University of North Dakota - Bachelor of Science: Biology

Dr. Kenneth O'Daniel

Dr. Kenneth O'Daniel of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
Dr. O’Daniel was born in the beautiful mountains of Waynesville, North Carolina and grew up in Dayton, Ohio. He attended Wright State University and graduated with his BS in Biology in 1977; shortly thereafter, beginning his Masters in BioChemistry.

Dr. O’Daniel is also a 1983 graduate of the Illinois College Optometry. He met his wife Lori during this period. Lori, a Chicago native, became an integral part of his practice (and life!) shortly thereafter.
He moved to Scottsdale in 1986 to begin practicing inside LensCrafters. In 1990 Dr. O'Daniel opened the Scottsdale LensCrafters, and he also presided as its director of Optometric services.
Dr. O’Daniel became an Optometrist because of his love and passion for photography, physics, and desire provide patients with the ability to see the world more clearly. As a licensed optometrist, Dr. O’Daniel provides complete eye care services for the surrounding communities ages seven and up.
Dr. O’Daniel has had a working relationship with both Dr. Fuller and McPhellan for over two decades. He has served as past director for the Arizona Optometric Association, and past President of the Central Arizona Optometric Society. In January, 2018 Dr. O’Daniel decided to join Tatum Eye Care, the premier Eye Care Center in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Dr. O’Daniel’s goal is simple: Provide Excellent Eye Care, treat patients as family, and treat everyone honestly and fairly!

Dr. Christina Wong

Dr. Christina Wong of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
A southern California native, Dr. Wong attended UCLA where she received her B.S. in Biology. She then completed her Doctorate of Optometry at the Southern California College of Optometry. Dr. Wong moved to Arizona to complete a residency in ocular disease at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital on the Gila River Indian Reservation. Following residency, Dr. Wong earned the distinction of Fellow in the American Academy of Optometry.

Dr. Wong provides comprehensive eye care to patients of all ages, from pediatrics through seniors. She has a special interest in the management of medical eye conditions including glaucoma, eye infections, dry eye and diabetic retinopathy.
Outside of the office, Dr. Wong enjoys running, going to the beach, rooting for the Bruins, and spending time with her husband and three daughters.
University of California Los Angeles - B.S. in Biology
Southern California College of Optometry - Doctorate of Optometry

Dr. Ryan Felten

Dr. Felten of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
Dr. Felten is a native to Arizona, and was raised in North Phoenix where most of his family still resides. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University; then returned home to Arizona to pursue his Doctor of Optometry at Midwestern University in Glendale. While at Midwestern University, he was a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society and was the recipient of the Clinical Excellence Award in Pediatrics and Vision Therapy. Dr. Felten enjoys working with patients of all ages and also speaks fluent Spanish. Dr. Felten holds the following degrees:


Brigham Young University - Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
Midwestern University - Doctorate of Optometry