When Should I See an Eye Care Professional for Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing discomfort and affecting daily activities. But when is it time to seek professional help for dry eye? Understanding the condition, its risks, and the importance of seeing an eye care professional can make all the difference in protecting your vision and improving your quality of life.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of your eyes and providing clear vision. Without enough moisture, your eyes can become irritated, inflamed, and susceptible to damage.

Left untreated, dry eye can lead to more severe issues. Chronic dryness can cause damage to the cornea (the clear, outer layer of the eye), increase the risk of infections, and lead to scarring. Over time, it can also result in blurred vision, difficulty reading, or discomfort when wearing contact lenses. 

Signs You Need to See an Eye Doctor

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it's time to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional:
 

• Persistent dryness, burning, or irritation: Occasional dryness is normal, but if the discomfort becomes chronic, it's a sign your eyes need help.

• Redness or inflammation: Red, inflamed eyes are a common symptom of dry eye and can indicate that the condition is worsening.

• Blurred vision: If your vision becomes blurry or fluctuates, especially after reading or using a computer, it could be due to dry eye.

• Difficulty wearing contact lenses: If you’ve worn contact lenses comfortably in the past but now experience discomfort, dry eye may be the cause.

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis for a Personalized Treatment Plan

While over-the-counter eye drops may provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying causes of dry eye. Visiting an eye care professional is essential for a proper diagnosis. At Family Vision Care of Richmond, our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to determine the root cause of your dry eye, whether it's due to a lack of tear production, meibomian gland dysfunction, or another factor. With a clear diagnosis, we can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, ensuring long-term relief and protecting your vision.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Family Vision Care of Richmond Today

At Family Vision Care of Richmond, we understand the frustration and discomfort that dry eye can cause. We offer comprehensive care, including thorough evaluations and cutting-edge treatments to manage and alleviate dry eye symptoms. From prescription eye drops to in-office therapies that treat the root causes, we provide solutions that go beyond temporary relief.
 

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with Family Vision Care of Richmond to learn more about our specialized dry eye care and how we can help you find relief. Contact our office in Glen Allen, Virginia, by calling (804) 217-9883 to book an appointment today.