FAQ Dry Eye Disease

Dry Eye is classified a disease, commonly known as Dry Eye Disease (DED) or Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca. This chronic condition impacts the amount and/or quality of tears, resulting in insufficient lubrication of the eyes.

Many people do not know they have dry eye disease. Common symptoms include: 

DRYNESS: A persistent feeling of dryness or gritty sensation in the eyes.

REDNESS: Eyes appear red or irritated, particularly after extended use. 

BURNING or Stinging: A burning feeling that worsens throughout the day.

BLURRED Vision: Difficulty focusing or occasional blurred vision.

SENSITIVITY to Light: Increased sensitivity to bright lights.

TEARING: Unusual tearing or watery eyes as the body tries to compensate for dryness.

The Meibomian glands are located at the upper and lower edges of the eyelids. They secrete an oily substance that serves several purposes: preventing the evaporation of tear fluid, adapting to surface changes during blinking, and maintaining a perfectly convex dioptric lens body for optimal optics function.

If this outer lipid-containing layer of the tear film is missing or inadequately developed, the tear fluid loses its stability. As a result, it evaporates, leading to an inflammatory reaction of the conjunctiva and the condition known as Dry Eye Syndrome, also referred to as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

You should consider getting your dry eyes treated when symptoms interfere with your daily activities or cause discomfort. Treating dry eyes early ensures that the condition doesn’t worsen or become a chronic and lifelong issue.                                     

Long-term effects of untreated dry eyes range from a reduced quality of life to, in rare cases, permanent loss of vision.

Chronic Inflammation

Untreated dry eye disease often involves ongoing inflammation of the ocular surface and tear glands, which can worsen symptoms and further diminish the quality and quantity of the tear film over time.

Chronic Pain and Discomfort

Persistent burning, stinging, or gritty sensations in the eyes make performing normal daily tasks—especially those involving prolonged focus, such as reading, driving, and screen use—difficult and even painful.

Psychological Impact

If persistent symptoms interfere with daily functioning, they may cause social and occupational challenges, potentially leading to anxiety or depression. 

Contact Lens Intolerance

Persistent dryness can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable or even impossible due to inadequate lubrication, which causes increased friction.

Ocular Surface Damage

Corneal and conjunctival injury result in persistent dryness that can damage the delicate tissues of the cornea and conjunctiva. Micro-abrasions increase the risk of corneal scarring, which can ultimately affect vision.

Increased Risk of Eye Infections

Tears serve as a protective barrier against pathogens. Inadequate tear production or quality increases the risk of:bacterial, viral, or fungal infections; conjunctivitis; and, in severe cases, corneal ulcers.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

Chronic dry eye is often associated with or worsened by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, in which the glands responsible for producing the lipid layer of tears become blocked or atrophy, leading to irreversible gland loss.

Vision Impairment

The instability of the tear film affects light refraction on the cornea, leading to fluctuating or consistently blurred vision. In severe cases, it can result in corneal scarring, potentially leading to permanent vision loss due to corneal opacity.

Severe Complications (Rare but Possible)

In extreme cases, untreated dry eye can lead to corneal ulceration, which are open sores on the cornea that, if untreated, may cause vision loss.

Corneal Perforation

A serious complication requiring emergency intervention, often leading to permanent damage or the need for a corneal transplant.

Early diagnosis and treatment of dry eye disease are crucial for preventing long-term adverse consequences. If you suspect dry eyes, take the Dry Eye Test using our link or contact us for a consultation. 

Caffeine and alcohol can exacerbate dry eyes; however, their effects depend on the individual's sensitivity, the amount consumed, and other factors such as hydration status and pre-existing eye conditions. Smoking significantly worsens dry eye symptoms.

You can prevent or reduce dry eye symptoms by using a room humidifier to maintain moisture, drinking plenty of water to support tear production, and limiting screen time. Take regular breaks to reduce digital eye strain.

There are also exercises you can do to help with dry eye symptoms. Please see our blog post "Six Eye Exercises to Help Your Dry Eyes".