Many people think of dry eye as nothing more than occasional discomfort or irritation. However, chronic dry eye can be a sign of underlying eye health issues and, if left untreated, can lead to lasting damage. Understanding the causes, risks, and treatment options can help you protect your vision and quality of life.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the tears you do produce lack the right balance of water, oils, and mucus. Healthy tears keep your eyes lubricated, protect them from infection, and help you see clearly. Without adequate moisture, your eyes can feel gritty, burn, sting, or even water excessively as they try to compensate.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Blepharitis

Two common conditions often linked to dry eye are meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and blepharitis. MGD occurs when the tiny oil glands along your eyelids become blocked or produce poor-quality oil. Without this vital oil layer, your tears can evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes dry and irritated.

Blepharitis, on the other hand, is inflammation of the eyelids. It is often caused by bacteria or certain skin conditions and can lead to redness, swelling, and discomfort. This inflammation can also interfere with healthy tear production, contributing to dryness. These conditions can develop at the same time, compounding their effects and making dry eye symptoms more severe and persistent.

Risks of Untreated Dry Eye

Ignoring dry eye can lead to more than discomfort. Chronic dryness increases your risk for:

• Eye infections, as tears are essential for flushing out debris and bacteria.

• Damage to the cornea, including scratches or ulcers.

• Blurred vision and difficulty focusing.

• Reduced quality of life due to ongoing irritation, light sensitivity, or eye fatigue.

How Your Optometrist Can Help

Your optometrist has the expertise and tools to identify the root cause of your dry eye and create a treatment plan tailored to you. A thorough eye exam will assess tear quality, gland health, and any signs of inflammation or eyelid disease.

Your optometrist may recommend prescription eye drops, eyelid hygiene routines, or nutritional supplements to improve tear production and quality. For stubborn or severe cases, advanced in-office treatments can provide relief and address the underlying causes:

• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy reduces inflammation and unclogs blocked meibomian glands.

• MiBo Thermoflo uses gentle heat and massage to improve oil flow from the eyelid glands.

• Blephasteam offers controlled heat and humidity to loosen blockages and restore natural tear balance.

Find Lasting Relief from Dry Eye Today

Dry eye is more than a minor inconvenience. It’s a real eye health condition that deserves attention. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can relieve symptoms, protect your eyes, and improve your daily comfort.

If you’ve been living with dry, irritated eyes, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. Schedule a dry eye evaluation at Westchester Eyes and take the first step toward lasting relief. Visit our office in White Plains, New York, or call (914) 567-4800 to book an appointment today.