Why Is Dry Eye Disease Becoming More Common in Young Adults?

Dry eye disease, once considered a condition primarily affecting older adults, is increasingly being diagnosed in young adults. The shift has raised concern among eye care professionals, including our team at San Marino Optometry, as more patients in their 20s and 30s experience chronic irritation, redness, and blurry vision due to inadequate tear production or poor tear quality. Understanding why this trend is growing can help you take proactive steps and find effective dry eye treatment in San Marino, California.
 

Digital Device Overuse

One of the biggest culprits behind rising dry eye cases in young adults is screen time. Between work, school, and entertainment, most people spend hours every day staring at computers, phones, and tablets. This constant focus reduces blink rate, leading to faster tear evaporation and eye surface dehydration. Over time, this can cause persistent discomfort and inflammation.
 

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Urban environments - such as those with high pollution, air conditioning, or heating - can all worsen dryness. Contact lens wear, which is common among young professionals, can further contribute to irritation if not properly managed. Even lifestyle habits like smoking or excessive caffeine intake may exacerbate symptoms.
 

Hormonal and Health-Related Causes

Hormonal fluctuations, especially among women using oral contraceptives or undergoing hormonal treatments, can affect tear film stability. Autoimmune conditions, allergies, and poor nutrition (particularly low omega-3 intake) can also contribute to early-onset dry eye symptoms.
 

The Role of Stress and Sleep

Modern-day stress and sleep deprivation also play a role. Poor sleep can reduce tear production, while chronic stress affects the body’s inflammatory response - factors that can worsen dry eye severity over time.
 

How Our San Marino Optometrist Can Help

At San Marino Optometry, our experienced team uses advanced diagnostic technology to pinpoint the root cause of your dry eye symptoms. From meibomian gland imaging to tear film analysis, we take a comprehensive approach to understanding your unique condition rather than relying on temporary fixes.

Once we identify the underlying factors, we create a personalized treatment plan to restore comfort and tear balance. Treatments may include in-office therapies such as meibomian gland expression, or IPL therapy to target inflammation. For patients with moderate to severe symptoms, we may also prescribe prescription eye drops, tear supplements, or punctal plugs to help retain natural moisture.
 

Restore Comfort with Expert Dry Eye Care in San Marino, CA

Dry eye disease is no longer limited to older adults - it’s a growing issue among younger generations due to digital lifestyles, environmental stressors, and overall health factors. The good news is that with early intervention and customized care, you can restore comfort and protect your long-term vision.

Don’t let dry eye symptoms affect your productivity and quality of life. Schedule an evaluation with at San Marino Optometry to get started on personalized dry eye treatment in San Marino, California. We proudly serve the San Marino, San Gabriel, and Arcadia communities. Please call (626) 415-3600 to book an appointment today.