Ever notice your eyes feel gritty after a long day on the computer or sting in the middle of a windy walk? Most people chalk it up to screen time or the weather, but for many, these are signs of something more persistent: dry eye disease.
At Modesto Optometric Vision Center in Riverbank and Modesto, we’ve been caring for our community’s vision for decades, and our eye doctors take dry eye treatment seriously because we know how much eye irritation interfere with your daily comfort, clarity, and even contact lens wear.
When Is Dry Eye Awareness Month?
Dry Eye Awareness Month takes place every July and aims to bring attention to a condition that affects millions of people, yet often goes untreated. The goal is to help people recognize the symptoms of dry eye disease, understand its causes, and encourage them to take the first step toward long-term relief.
This awareness campaign is especially important as screen time, allergies, and environmental triggers become more common in our daily lives. Whether you wear contact lenses, work in front of a computer, or just feel like your eyes are constantly irritated, July serves as a reminder that help is available—and it can make a real difference.
What to Know About Dry Eye Disease This July
Many people experience dry eyes but don’t realize they’re dealing with a medical eye condition that can and should be treated. Here's what to keep in mind:
What Causes Dry Eye?
Dry eye happens when your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or the tears they do make aren’t high quality. This may be due to aging, certain medications, hormonal shifts, autoimmune diseases, or prolonged contact lens wear. External factors, such as wind, smoke, and excessive use of digital devices, can also contribute to dry eye symptoms.
Symptoms to Watch For
Some of the most common dry eye symptoms include:
- Burning, stinging, or gritty sensations
- Redness or watering
- Blurry vision that comes and goes
- Discomfort when wearing contact lenses
- Eye fatigue, especially after screen time
These symptoms can develop gradually, which is why many people become accustomed to them and don’t mention them during exams.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Ignoring dry eye won’t make it go away. Untreated dry eye can lead to inflammation, increased risk of eye infections, and damage to the surface of your eye. Addressing the issue early means more than comfort—it protects your long-term vision and helps prevent complications.
Dry Eye Treatments at Modesto Optometric Vision Center
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all when it comes to dry eye treatment. Our team starts with a thorough exam and uses advanced tools to pinpoint the root cause of the problem. From there, we create a care plan tailored to your lifestyle, your eyes, and your comfort. Here are just a few of the solutions we offer at our Riverbank and Modesto locations:
- Lipiflow® Thermal Pulsation: Targets blocked oil glands in your eyelids to restore natural tear balance.
- Zest Treatment: Gently removes debris and bacteria from the eyelid margin, helping reduce inflammation and boost the production of quality tears.
- Punctal Plugs: Tiny, comfortable inserts that help retain your natural tears for longer-lasting moisture.
- Prescription Eye Drops: For inflammation or tear production issues that need more than over-the-counter relief.
- Amniotic Membrane Therapy: Supports healing of the eye surface in more severe cases.
- Lifestyle & Nutrition Support: We’ll walk you through habits and supplements that can help you feel better from the inside out.
We’re here to help you move past “just dealing with it” and into clearer, more comfortable days.
Get Lasting Dry Eye Relief in Riverbank or Modesto
If you've been diagnosed with dry eye, you don’t have to settle for irritated eyes, blurry moments, or drops that barely get you through the day. At Modesto Optometric Vision Center, we take the time to understand what’s behind your symptoms—and build a plan that fits your life.
We’re here for you in Riverbank and Modesto with flexible hours and a warm, welcoming team. Book your eye care appointment, and we'll find a real solution— together.
