Symptoms of Dry Eye: When to Seek Professional Help

Dry eyes can be more than just uncomfortable. They can make simple things like reading or watching TV difficult. You might have dry eye syndrome if your eyes often feel scratchy, gritty, or burning. Knowing the symptoms helps you decide when it’s time to get help.
 

Dry eye happens when your eyes make less than enough tears, or the tears evaporate too fast. Tears keep your eyes moist, protect them from irritants, and help you see clearly. Without enough tears, your eyes become dry, irritated, and tired. This condition is common, especially as people get older or spend lots of time on screens.
 

Common Signs to Watch for

One of the first signs is a feeling like something is stuck in your eye. This gritty or sandy feeling can come and go or stay all day. Your eyes may also feel itchy or like they’re burning. You might notice your eyes watering more than usual. This happens because your eyes try to fight dryness by producing more tears. You may blink more often or feel like your eyes are tired.
 

Redness and sensitivity to light are other common symptoms. These signs mean your eyes are stressed and need care. If you notice these, don’t ignore them.
 

Changes in Your Vision

Dry eyes can affect how well you see. Blurry or changing vision is a warning sign. Your eyes may feel heavy or tired by the end of the day.
 

These changes can interfere with everyday tasks like driving or using the computer. If your vision feels off, seeing an eye doctor is important. Early treatment helps to prevent more serious problems.
 

What Makes Dry Eye Worse?

Certain things can make dry eye symptoms worse. Dry or windy weather can irritate your eyes. Spending long hours looking at screens without breaks also leads to dryness.
 

Some medications, like antihistamines or blood pressure drugs, can reduce tear production. Medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes may also increase the risk. Knowing what makes your symptoms worse helps you avoid triggers. This can improve how your eyes feel day-to-day.
 

When to Seek Professional Help

If your symptoms last over a few days or worsen, it’s time to see a doctor. Also, seek care if you feel pain, have discharge, or sudden vision changes. Eye doctors can check your tear production and eye surface health. They may recommend treatments like artificial tears, medication, or lifestyle changes.
 

Getting help early can relieve discomfort and protect your vision.
 

How to Care for Dry Eyes at Home

While waiting for professional help, there are ways to ease discomfort. Use over-the-counter artificial tears to keep your eyes moist. Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can cause more irritation.
 

Taking breaks from screens helps your eyes rest. At least once every 20 minutes, focus on an object that is 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
 

Making use of a humidifier will improve the moisture content in the air inside your home. Wearing sunglasses outside protects the eyes from the wind and the sun.
 

Living With Dry Eye

Dry eye is often a long-term condition. Managing it well means you can enjoy daily activities with less discomfort.
 

Many people live well with dry eye by caring for their eyes.
 

For more on dry eyes, visit Somerville Family Eyecare, LLC, at our office in Raritan, New Jersey. Call (908) 350-0800 to schedule an appointment today.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/dry-eye-syndrome-doctor