Is Dry Eye a Chronic Condition?

Dry eye is more than a temporary irritation. For many, it’s a persistent problem that affects day-to-day comfort and eye health. But what makes dry eye a chronic condition, and why is it important to understand its nature?

Understanding Dry Eye

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears produced lack the right balance of water, oil, and mucus. Tears play a crucial role in keeping your eyes comfortable, lubricated, and free from dust or particles. When tear production is insufficient or unstable, your eyes can feel gritty, itchy, or even experience a burning sensation.

Why Is Dry Eye Often Chronic?

Dry eye becomes chronic when the underlying issues—often related to age, hormonal changes, medication side effects, or lifestyle factors—persist over time. Other contributing factors include autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome or environmental stressors such as prolonged screen time, dry climates, and contact lens wear. Chronic dry eye often requires ongoing treatment and adjustments in care to manage its symptoms effectively.

Common Symptoms of Chronic Dry Eye

If you experience the following symptoms regularly, it’s possible that your dry eye condition may be chronic:

Persistent irritation or itching in the eyes
Sensitivity to light
Blurred vision or eye fatigue, especially after prolonged reading or screen use
Redness or watery eyes
Feeling like there is something in your eye, even when there isn’t

How Is Chronic Dry Eye Treated?

While there is no permanent cure for chronic dry eye, various treatments are available to help manage symptoms and improve eye comfort. Your eye care provider may recommend:

Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating drops can provide relief by mimicking natural tears.
Prescription Eye Drops: For more severe cases, medications that reduce inflammation or stimulate tear production, like cyclosporine or lifitegrast, may be prescribed.
Punctal Plugs: These tiny plugs are inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tear drainage, keeping more moisture on the eye’s surface.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Reducing screen time, using a humidifier, wearing wrap-around glasses, and taking frequent breaks during tasks can also help reduce symptoms.

When to Seek Professional Help

If dry eye symptoms have become a regular part of your life, it’s essential to seek a professional evaluation. Chronic dry eye can lead to damage of the eye’s surface and may increase the risk of infection if left untreated. An eye doctor can assess the severity of your condition and recommend the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.

The Importance of Ongoing Management

Chronic dry eye is a lifelong condition that requires consistent attention and care. Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring the effectiveness of treatments and making adjustments as needed. By staying proactive about your eye health and following your provider’s recommendations, you can maintain comfort and prevent potential complications associated with chronic dry eye.

Take the First Step Toward Relief at Eyecare Rockwall

At Eyecare Rockwall, we specialize in diagnosing and treating chronic dry eye to help our patients find relief and improve their quality of life.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye, contact Eyecare Rockwall to schedule a consultation. Visit our office in Rockwall, Texas, or call (972) 472-2020 to book an appointment today.