FAQs

Dry eye disease is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough quality tears to properly lubricate the surface. This can be caused by inflammation, meibomian gland dysfunction (oil gland blockage), hormonal imbalance, environmental factors, medications, and systemic health issues.

At Airis Eye & Wellness, we take a whole-body approach to identify the root cause rather than just treating symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

• Burning or stinging sensation

• Excessive tearing (watery eyes)

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Light sensitivity

• Eye fatigue, especially with screen use

• Redness or irritation

Many patients are surprised that watery eyes are often a sign of dry eye, not the opposite.

Excess tearing is a reflex response. When the eyes are dry and irritated, the brain signals the lacrimal gland to produce more tears. These tears are often low quality and evaporate quickly, which does not solve the underlying problem.

MGD is one of the leading causes of dry eye and occurs when the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked or inflamed.

Common causes include:

• Chronic inflammation

• Hormonal changes

• Poor blinking habits (especially with screens)

• Diet and metabolic health

• Skin conditions like rosacea

We use advanced diagnostic testing to evaluate the entire tear system, including:

• Meibomian gland imaging

• Tear film analysis

• Blink dynamics

• Ocular surface inflammation

We also review bloodwork when needed to identify systemic contributors.

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment. The best approach depends on the root cause.

Treatment options may include:

• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light therapy)

• RF (radiofrequency) treatments

• Meibomian gland expression

• Prescription eye drops

• Nutritional and hormonal support

• Neurological and stress-based therapies (Exomind)

A customized treatment plan delivers the best long-term results.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) reduces inflammation around the eyelids and improves function of the oil glands. This leads to better tear stability and reduced symptoms.
It is one of the most effective treatments for evaporative dry eye.

Yes. Dr. Boparai uses the Lumenis IPL device which is the only FDA-approved for treating dry eye disease when applied to the skin around the eyes (typically from tragus to tragus).
Direct eyelid treatment requires special precautions and is used selectively based on clinical need.

Both optometrists and ophthalmologists are essential to comprehensive eye care. Optometrists often manage primary eye care and vision therapy needs, while ophthalmologists handle complex medical and surgical eye conditions. Collaboration between the two ensures patients receive the most appropriate and effective care.

Results vary depending on the severity and underlying cause.
Typical patterns:

• Initial series: 3–4 treatments

• Maintenance: every 3–12 months

Long-term success depends on addressing both ocular and systemic factors.

Dry eye disease is typically a chronic condition, but it can be effectively managed and significantly improved.

With the right treatment strategy, many patients experience long-lasting relief and reduced dependence on drops.

Screen use reduces blink rate and leads to incomplete blinking. This prevents proper oil distribution in the tear film and accelerates tear evaporation.

This is one of the most common causes of dry eye in working professionals.

Nutrition plays a major role in inflammation and tear quality.
Key factors include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids

• Hormonal balance (especially androgens and estrogen)

• Vitamin deficiencies

• Blood sugar control

We often incorporate targeted supplementation based on bloodwork.

Yes. Hormonal imbalance is a major contributor, especially:

• Low androgens (affect oil glands)

• Estrogen fluctuations

• Thyroid dysfunction

This is particularly common in peri-menopausal and post-menopausal patients.

Certain medications can reduce tear production, including:

• Antihistamines

• Antidepressants

• Blood pressure medications

• Thyroid medications

We evaluate medication history as part of your treatment plan.

Exomind is a non-invasive brain stimulation therapy that helps regulate neural pathways involved in stress, mood, and autonomic function.

Since dry eye is influenced by the nervous system, reducing neurological stress can improve symptoms and treatment response.

Not always, but in complex or chronic cases, bloodwork helps identify underlying contributors such as:

• Inflammation

• Hormonal imbalance

• Nutritional deficiencies

This allows for a more targeted and effective treatment plan.

Most clinics focus on prescribing eye drops.

We focus on:

• Identifying root causes

• Using advanced technology

• Integrating whole-body health

• Creating long-term solutions instead of temporary relief

You should seek evaluation if:

• Symptoms persist despite using artificial tears

• Vision fluctuates throughout the day

• You rely on drops frequently

• You experience discomfort with screen use

Early treatment leads to better outcomes.