When Should I See a Doctor for Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, from irritation and redness to blurred vision and even pain.
 

What Causes Dry Eye?

One of the leading causes of dry eye is a condition called meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands are located along the edges of your eyelids and are responsible for producing the oily component of your tear film. When these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, the tear film becomes unstable, leading to increased evaporation and dry eye symptoms. Other causes of dry eye include:

• Aging: As we get older, our tear production naturally decreases, making us more susceptible to dry eye.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments can exacerbate dry eye.
• Medical conditions: Conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can contribute to dry eye.
• Digital eye strain: Prolonged use of digital devices can lead to reduced blinking, which can cause tear film evaporation and dry eye.

Understanding the underlying causes of your dry eye is the first step in addressing the problem effectively.
 

Symptoms of Dry Eye and How It Affects Daily Life

Dry eye can manifest in a variety of symptoms, including:

• Burning, stinging, or scratchy sensations in the eyes
• Redness or irritation
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
• Feeling like there is something in your eye
• Excessive tearing
• Difficulty with tasks that require sustained visual focus, such as reading, working on a computer, or driving

These symptoms can significantly impact your daily life, making it challenging to perform routine tasks, work productively, or even enjoy leisure activities. Untreated dry eye can also lead to more serious complications.
 

Risks of Untreated Dry Eye

Ignoring dry eye can have serious consequences for your eye health and overall quality of life. Some of the potential risks of leaving dry eye untreated include:

• Corneal damage: Persistent dryness can lead to inflammation and even scarring of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. This can result in vision problems or even vision loss.
• Eye infections: Dry eyes are more susceptible to bacterial or fungal infections, which can be painful and potentially sight-threatening.
• Vision impairment: Dry eye can cause blurred vision, which can interfere with your ability to perform everyday tasks, such as reading, driving, or using digital devices.
• Decreased quality of life: Chronic dry eye can be a source of discomfort, pain, and frustration, negatively impacting your overall well-being and quality of life.

Seeking professional help for dry eye is crucial to prevent these potential complications and maintain healthy, comfortable eyes.
 

When to Seek Professional Help for Dry Eye

If you are experiencing persistent or worsening dry eye symptoms, it's important to seek professional help from an optometrist. You should consider making an appointment if:

• Your dry eye symptoms are interfering with your daily activities or quality of life
• Your symptoms are not improving with over-the-counter treatments, such as artificial tears or warm compresses
• You have underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your dry eye
• You are experiencing any changes in your vision or eye health

Early intervention and proper management of dry eye can help prevent complications and improve your overall eye health and comfort.
 

The Role of an Optometrist in Diagnosing and Treating Dry Eye

When you visit an optometrist for dry eye, they will first perform a comprehensive eye examination to assess the underlying cause of your condition. This may include:

• Measuring the quantity and quality of your tears
• Examining the structure and function of your meibomian glands
• Checking for any signs of inflammation or damage to the ocular surface

Based on the findings, your optometrist will develop a personalized treatment plan to address the specific factors contributing to your dry eye. Your optometrist will work closely with you to monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed, ensuring that your dry eye is effectively managed.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Eyes of East Sacramento Today

Dry eye is a common and often chronic condition that can significantly impact your daily life, but it is also a treatable one. By understanding the causes and symptoms of dry eye, recognizing when to seek professional help, and working closely with your eye care provider, you can take proactive steps to maintain healthy, comfortable eyes.
 

If you are experiencing persistent or worsening dry eye symptoms, schedule an appointment with Eyes of East Sacramento. We can help you identify the underlying causes of your dry eye and develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and protect your long-term eye health. Visit our office in Sacramento, California, or call (916) 915-0500 to book an appointment today.