When Is It Time to See a Specialist for Dry Eye?

Dry eye is one of the most common conditions people experience, but it’s often misunderstood or overlooked. Occasional dryness from a windy day or too much screen time might not be cause for concern. However, when symptoms become persistent, they may indicate a deeper issue - one that requires the care of an optometrist.

Understanding Dry Eye and Its Causes

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. A common underlying cause is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a condition where the oil glands in the eyelids become blocked or don’t function properly. Since these glands are essential for keeping tears from evaporating, untreated MGD often leads to chronic dryness, irritation, and blurred vision.

Signs It’s Time to See an Optometrist

While occasional dryness may improve with over-the-counter artificial tears, you should schedule an eye exam if you notice:

• Redness, burning, or stinging that persists

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• A gritty sensation, as if something is in your eye

• Excessive tearing

• Discomfort wearing contact lenses

Our doctor can evaluate whether your symptoms are linked to MGD, allergies, environmental factors, or another underlying condition.

Risks of Leaving Dry Eye Untreated

Ignoring chronic dry eye can lead to more than just discomfort. Over time, untreated dry eye can increase your risk of:

• Eye infections, due to a lack of tear protection

• Damage to the cornea, including scratches or ulcers

• Permanent changes in vision

• Reduced quality of life from ongoing irritation and blurry sight

Personalized Treatment Options

Every case of dry eye is different, which is why personalized treatment is so important. What works for one person may not be effective for another, making a tailored approach essential to finding lasting relief.

Depending on the cause and severity of your symptoms, your optometrist may recommend prescription eye drops to improve tear production. In many cases, dry eye is linked to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which may require targeted treatments such as heat therapy or in-office procedures designed to restore healthy oil flow in the eyelids.

Lifestyle adjustments can also play a significant role in managing dry eye. Simple changes, such as taking regular screen breaks or increasing hydration, can make a noticeable difference in comfort. For patients with more advanced or persistent cases, specialized contact lenses may be recommended. These lenses are designed to protect and hydrate the eyes, providing both clearer vision and long-term relief. By tailoring treatment to your unique needs, your optometrist can not only restore comfort but also protect your long-term eye health.

Protect Your Eyes With Expert Care

Dry eye may start as a minor annoyance, but when symptoms don’t improve with simple remedies, it’s time to seek professional care. We can identify the root cause and create a personalized plan to protect your eyes.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with Kibo Eyecare and get the personalized dry eye treatment you need. Visit our office in Glastonbury, Connecticut or call (860) 659-5900 to book your appointment today.