When Should You Seek Professional Help for Dry Eyes?

Many people experience occasional dry eyes due to factors like weather changes, screen time, or allergies. But how do you know when it’s time to stop reaching for over-the-counter drops and start seeking professional help? At Texas State Optical New Braunfels, we’re here to help you understand the signs that dry eyes may require expert care.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor, leading to inadequate lubrication of the eye's surface. Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, prolonged screen time, certain medications, environmental conditions, Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), or underlying health issues like autoimmune diseases. When left untreated, dry eye can affect your comfort, visual clarity, and overall eye health.

Signs It’s Time to See an Eye Doctor

While mild symptoms may come and go, chronic or worsening dry eye symptoms may indicate an underlying issue. You should schedule an eye exam if you notice:
 

• Persistent dryness or discomfort: If artificial tears or home remedies no longer bring relief, it’s a sign that something more is going on.

• Burning, stinging, or gritty sensations: These symptoms often point to inflammation or dysfunction in the tear film or oil glands.

• Blurred vision: This could signal unstable tear film, which can affect visual clarity and eye health.

• Redness or eye fatigue: Chronic irritation can lead to inflammation that may worsen without treatment.

• Increased sensitivity to light: A sign that your eye surface may be inflamed or unprotected due to tear film issues.

Why Professional Treatment Matters

Left untreated, dry eyes can lead to more than just discomfort. It can interfere with daily tasks, increase the risk of eye infections, and even cause damage to the surface of the eye. We offer advanced diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of your dry eyes and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Depending on your diagnosis, your dry eye treatment plan may include prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation and improve tear quality, punctal plugs to help conserve natural tears, and in-office treatments targeting meibomian gland dysfunction. Your eye doctor may also provide lifestyle and environmental recommendations to minimize triggers, along with nutritional guidance or supplements to support overall eye health.

Relief Starts with a Comprehensive Eye Exam

If you're experiencing persistent dry eye symptoms, it’s important to take action before the condition worsens. We specialize in identifying the root cause of dry eye and providing effective, personalized treatment options to help you feel comfortable and see clearly again.

Don’t let dry eyes disrupt your life, schedule your comprehensive evaluation with Texas State Optical New Braunfels and take the first step towards relief. Visit our office in New Braunfels, Texas, or call (830) 201-3237 to book an appointment today.