Dry Eye Syndrome

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as feeling like there’s sand in your eye when there isn’t. That’s one way people often describe dry eye syndrome—a condition that might seem small at first but can grow into a daily nuisance. At Broadway Eye Clinic, your eye doctor in Salt Lake City, UT, we help people understand what’s behind this discomfort and how to treat it in ways that actually work.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or the tears they do produce aren’t the right quality.

You might notice:

●             Burning or stinging sensations

●             Redness or a gritty feeling

●             Blurry vision that clears up after blinking

●             Watery eyes (ironically, this can be a response to dryness)

These symptoms can come and go, or stick around all day. And they tend to get worse if you spend a lot of time staring at screens, driving long distances, or sitting in dry indoor air.

What Causes It?

There’s no single cause for dry eye syndrome. Sometimes it’s age—tear production naturally slows down over time. Other times it’s due to:

●             Environmental factors like smoke or wind

●             Certain medications (like antihistamines or antidepressants)

●             Contact lens wear

●             Health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid issues

●             Long hours of screen time, which reduce blinking

Hormonal shifts, especially in women, can also play a role. That’s why dry eye tends to show up more often in people over 50, though we also see it in younger patients.

How We Treat It at Broadway Eye Clinic

Our first step is always a thorough exam. We’ll check your tear volume, the quality of your tear film, and the condition of the eye’s surface. From there, we build a treatment plan based on what your eyes actually need.

Common approaches include:

●             Eyedrops or artificial tears (the right kind makes a BIG difference)

●             Warm compresses to open up blocked oil glands

●             Prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation

●             Lifestyle adjustments, like improving humidity or taking screen breaks

●             In office treatments like RF & IPL (the gold standard for treating dry eye)

Get Eye Care from an Optometrist Near You for Dry Eye Relief

Dry eye syndrome might seem like a minor issue, but over time it can wear down your focus and comfort. At Broadway Eye Clinic, your optometrist in Salt Lake City, UT, we take it seriously—because you shouldn’t have to deal with red, scratchy eyes every day. With the right support, your eyes can feel clearer, calmer, and ready for whatever’s next. Call us at (801) 322-0467 for eye care from an optometrist near you for dry eye relief.