What Is the Main Cause of Dry Eye in 2025?

If your eyes feel gritty, tired, or constantly irritated, you may be one of the millions of people experiencing dry eye. This condition is more common than ever in 2025, as modern lifestyles and environmental factors continue to put strain on our eyes. But what is dry eye, and what is causing it to affect so many people?
 

Understanding Dry Eye

Dry eye is a condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining healthy vision and comfort. Without a stable tear film, your eyes can become inflamed, irritated, and more vulnerable to infection.
 

Common symptoms of dry eye include:
 

• Burning or stinging

• Blurred vision 

• Light sensitivity

• A sensation of something in the eye

• Redness and eye fatigue

The Main Cause of Dry Eye in 2025

While dry eye can result from a variety of factors, the primary cause in 2025 is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, or MGD. The meibomian glands are tiny oil-producing glands located along the edges of your eyelids. These glands release oils that keep tears from evaporating too quickly. When they become blocked or dysfunctional, the tear film becomes unstable, leading to evaporative dry eye.

Other Contributing Factors to Dry Eye

While MGD remains the leading cause, several other factors can contribute to dry eye symptoms, including:
 

• Allergies: Seasonal and environmental allergies can cause inflammation and disrupt tear production.

• Environmental conditions: Wind, dry air, air conditioning, and heaters can dry out your eyes.

• Hormonal changes: Especially common in postmenopausal women, hormone shifts can reduce tear quality.

• Systemic health conditions: Autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis can affect tear glands.

• Prolonged screen time: Reduced blinking while using digital devices can worsen symptoms.

How IPL Can Help Treat Dry Eye

One of the most effective treatments for MGD-related dry eye is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. Originally developed for dermatological use, IPL has emerged as a powerful tool in the field of eye care. It works by delivering gentle pulses of light to the skin around the eyes, specifically targeting inflammation and helping to restore healthy function to the meibomian glands.
 

IPL therapy helps relieve dry eye symptoms in several important ways. It unclogs the meibomian glands, which allows for a healthier flow of oils into the tear film. It also reduces inflammation around the eyelids, which is often a key contributor to dry eye discomfort. In addition, IPL minimizes the presence of bacteria and Demodex mites that can aggravate the eyes and interfere with gland function. Over time, the treatment helps promote long-term stability of the tear film.
 

Find Long-Term Relief at Eye Care Associates of Princeton

Dry eye may be increasingly common, but it does not have to be something you live with. We offer advanced diagnostics and effective treatments like IPL to help you find lasting relief.
 

If you are struggling with dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with Eye Care Associates of Princeton for a personalized treatment plan. Visit our office in Princeton, New Jersey, by call (609) 536-1017 to book an appointment today.