Dry eye is a frustrating and often persistent condition that can make everyday tasks feel uncomfortable. Thankfully, there are effective ways to manage dry eye symptoms and protect long-term eye health. The experienced eye doctors in Cincinnati, OH at Dr. Timothy P. Kenkel and Associates are experienced in diagnosing dry eye at its source and providing solutions tailored to your needs.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes aren’t producing enough tears or the tears produced lack the right balance of oil, water, and mucus. This can lead to tear film evaporation and insufficient lubrication on the surface of the eyes.

Common risk factors include:

•           Prolonged screen time

•           Contact lens wear

•           Aging (especially over age 50)

•           Hormonal changes

•           Certain medications such as antihistamines

•           Environmental conditions like wind or dry indoor air

•           Underlying conditions such as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)

Understanding the cause is a key step in selecting the most effective dry eye treatment in Cincinnati.

Helpful Lifestyle Changes for Dry Eye Relief

For many patients, a few simple adjustments can make a big difference in comfort:

•           Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Take breaks during screen time - every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reset your eyes.

•           Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air keeps tears from evaporating too quickly.

•           Stay Hydrated: Tears come from the body’s hydration levels - drinking more water helps improve tear quality.

•           Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: Shielding your eyes from wind and UV rays protects your tear film.

•           Take Omega-3 Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids may support healthy tear production.

•           Practice Eyelid Hygiene: Warm compresses and gentle lid scrubs can remove debris and help improve oil gland function.

These lifestyle modifications can improve symptoms but may not be enough on their own for chronic dry eye.

When to See an Eye Doctor

If dry eye symptoms persist for more than a few days or begin impacting your daily life, it’s time for a professional evaluation. Chronic dry eye can worsen without care and may lead to damage on the surface of the eye. Our eye doctors in Cincinnati, OH have the technology and experience to identify why your eyes are feeling dry and provide lasting solutions.

We offer a variety of advanced dry eye treatment options in Cincinnati designed to relieve symptoms while targeting the root cause of discomfort. Depending on your needs, your doctor may recommend prescription eye drops to increase tear production or minimize inflammation, meibomian gland therapies to improve oil gland function, or customized contact lens solutions such as scleral lenses to protect the cornea and enhance comfort. Every treatment plan is carefully tailored to ensure you receive the most effective relief possible

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation Today

Dry eye doesn’t have to interfere with your comfort or quality of life. With the right combination of lifestyle changes and professional treatment, you can find meaningful relief and clearer, more comfortable vision.