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Blepharitis is a common eyelid condition that causes inflammation along the lash line. It can affect one or both eyes and may feel like ongoing irritation, dryness, burning, or crusting around the eyelids. At Beach Cities Optometry, we often see patients in Manhattan Beach who think they have simple dry eye or allergies, only to learn that eyelid inflammation is part of the problem.

For many people in Manhattan Beach, dry eye symptoms get worse during long hours of screen use. That is one reason the 20-20-20 rule is often recommended. The idea is simple - every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. While this habit is most often discussed for digital eye strain, it can also help support better visual comfort when screen time contributes to dry eye symptoms.

Dry eye can cause burning, stinging, redness, blurry vision, watery eyes, and a gritty sensation. Some people notice symptoms only at the end of the day, while others deal with ongoing discomfort. Because dry eye can have different causes, the right treatment depends on what is triggering the problem.

Astigmatism is one of the most common vision conditions, yet many people don’t realize they have it - or assume it’s too minor to address. While mild astigmatism may seem manageable at first, leaving it untreated can lead to ongoing discomfort, reduced quality of life, and even worsening visual strain over time.

If you suffer from chronic dry eye symptoms - such as burning, irritation, redness, or blurry vision - you may be dealing with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). MGD is one of the leading causes of dry eye disease and occurs when the oil-producing glands along the eyelids become blocked or inflamed. Fortunately, advances in eye care now offer effective, long-lasting relief. One of the most innovative solutions available today is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, specifically OptiLight IPL.

Contact lenses can be a great option for children and teens, offering clear vision, convenience for sports and activities, and increased confidence. However, because children may be less aware of proper hygiene and care routines, contact lens safety is especially important. With the right guidance and support from parents and an optometrist, contact lenses can be a safe and successful part of your child’s vision care.

If you’ve completed your initial OptiLight IPL treatment series for dry eye disease, you’re already experiencing the benefits of clearer, more comfortable vision. But to keep those results going, ongoing maintenance is key.

When it comes to protecting your vision, regular comprehensive eye exams are essential. One critical part of these exams is dilation - a simple yet powerful procedure that allows your optometrist to get a closer look at the health of your eyes. But what exactly happens during a dilated eye exam, and why is it so important?

When it comes to eyewear, many people are tempted to buy the least expensive pair of glasses they can find. At first glance, bargain frames and lenses may seem like a smart way to save money. But the reality is that cheap glasses can cost you more in the long run - both financially and in terms of your eye health.

Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone working in environments where hazards are common, protecting your vision is essential. Eye injuries can happen in a split second and may have lifelong consequences. Fortunately, most of them are preventable with the right precautions.