Dry eye is more than just a temporary annoyance—it’s a chronic condition that can interfere with your daily life, making simple activities like reading, working on a computer, or driving uncomfortable. Fortunately, with advancements in technology and treatment methods, 2025 has brought exciting new options for relief.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to inflammation, discomfort, and potential damage to the eye’s surface. Common symptoms include burning, itching, redness, watery eyes, and blurred vision.

 

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can result from various factors, including:

• Aging, particularly after age 50
• Environmental conditions such as wind, dry air, or smoke
• Extended screen time, which reduces blinking
• Contact lens wear
• Certain medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants
• Hormonal changes, especially in women
•  Medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases
• Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
• Blepharitis

Understanding the root cause of your dry eye is key to finding the right treatment.

 

Traditional Treatment Options

At Eyecare Galleria, we offer a range of solutions tailored to the underlying cause of your symptoms:

• Lid Hygiene: In cases where clogged glands are the culprit, proper eyelid hygiene can help. Warm compresses and gentle scrubbing remove debris and promote healthy oil flow.

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops are often the first line of defense to keep eyes moist.

•  Prescription Eye Drops: Medications like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) can reduce inflammation and help your eyes produce more natural tears.

•  Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil or flaxseed oil supplements, can improve tear quality and reduce symptoms.

New Treatments for Dry Eye in 2025

As dry eye research advances, several cutting-edge treatments have emerged that are changing the way we manage this condition:

•  Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses gentle heat generated by radio waves to stimulate the meibomian glands (oil glands in your eyelids). By improving oil flow, RF therapy helps stabilize the tear film and prevent tear evaporation. It’s a comfortable, in-office procedure with no downtime.
•  Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: Originally used in dermatology, IPL therapy has become a game-changer for treating dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. Light pulses reduce inflammation and improve gland function, offering lasting relief after a series of treatments.

Finding the Right Solution for You

With so many treatment options available, it’s important to work with an experienced eye care professional to determine the best course of action. At Eyecare Galleria, we perform a thorough evaluation to understand the root cause of your dry eye and recommend a customized treatment plan that delivers results.

Don’t let dry eyes impact your comfort or quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Eyecare Galleria to explore what solution is right for you. Visit our office in Brentwood, California, or call (925) 240-8520 to book an appointment today.