Living in Seattle, you might assume that all the rain and moisture in the air would protect your eyes from dryness. But if you’re constantly dealing with gritty, irritated eyes, you’re not alone. Despite the city’s famously damp climate, dry eye disease is incredibly common—and Seattleites aren’t immune to it.

Why Is Dry Eye So Common in Seattle?

Despite the city’s frequent rain, Seattle’s climate can still contribute to dry eye symptoms. Indoor heating during the colder months, air-conditioned offices, and excessive screen time (a given for our tech-heavy workforce) all take a toll on your eye health. But one of the biggest factors? Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

Your eyelids contain tiny glands called meibomian glands, which produce the oil layer of your tears. This oil is essential because it prevents your tears from evaporating too quickly. However, for many people—especially those in urban environments like Seattle—these glands become blocked or inflamed, leading to an unstable tear film and chronic dryness.

MGD is particularly common among:

•          People who spend long hours on screens (hello, remote workers and tech employees).

•          Those who wear contact lenses frequently.

•          Anyone experiencing seasonal allergies, which can contribute to inflammation.

If you’re tired of temporary fixes, it’s time to explore real solutions. At Roosevelt Vision, we take a personalized approach to dry eye treatment, helping our patients find lasting relief. Here are some of the most effective strategies.

Heated Eye Masks

A simple but powerful way to treat MGD is by using a heated eye mask. These masks help melt the oil blockages in your meibomian glands, allowing them to function properly again. Regular use can improve tear stability and reduce irritation.

Eyelid Cleansers

Keeping your eyelids clean is crucial, especially if you wear makeup or spend a lot of time outdoors. Specialized eyelid cleansers can help remove debris and bacteria that contribute to inflammation and gland dysfunction.

Miebo Prescription Eye Drops

Miebo is a prescription eye drop designed specifically for evaporative dry eye caused by MGD. It works by stabilizing the tear film and providing long-term moisture, helping your eyes feel comfortable throughout the day.

Topical or Oral Medications

For some people, anti-inflammatory medications (like steroid drops or omega-3 supplements) can help reduce inflammation and restore normal tear production. These treatments can be especially useful for those with autoimmune conditions or chronic dry eye.

Punctal Plugs

If your eyes don’t retain moisture well, punctal plugs can help. These tiny, painless, biocompatible devices are inserted into the tear ducts to slow the drainage of tears, keeping your eyes hydrated for longer periods. By reducing tear evaporation and increasing moisture retention, punctal plugs provide a long-term solution for those with moderate to severe dry eye, especially when artificial tears or other treatments aren’t enough.

Achieve Lasting Dry Eye Relief in Seattle

If you’re dealing with dry eye, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether it’s MGD, environmental factors, or another underlying condition, there are effective treatments available. We take the time to understand your symptoms and recommend the best treatment plan for your unique needs.

Schedule your consultation with Roosevelt Vision to explore the best dry eye treatment options for your eyes, and get back to seeing and feeling your best. Visit our office in Seattle, Washington, or call (206) 527-2987 to book an appointment today.