When to Seek Treatment for Chronic Dry Eye

If your eyes often feel dry, gritty, or irritated, you’re not alone. Millions of people experience dry eye symptoms every day - but when those symptoms become constant or worsen over time, it could be a sign of chronic dry eye disease. Unlike temporary dryness from wind or screen use, chronic dry eye usually indicates an underlying issue that needs professional attention.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Healthy tears keep your eyes lubricated, protect against infection, and support clear vision. When tear production or quality is disrupted, you may experience burning, stinging, redness, or a feeling that something is “in your eye.”
 

What Causes Chronic Dry Eye?

Chronic dry eye can have multiple causes, but two of the most common underlying conditions are Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and blepharitis. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) occurs when the tiny glands lining the edges of your eyelids become blocked or inflamed. These glands are responsible for producing the oily layer of your tears, which helps prevent tear evaporation. When the glands don’t function properly, the tears evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes feeling dry, gritty, and irritated.

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid margins, often caused by bacteria or an overgrowth of skin mites. This condition can lead to redness, crusting, and irritation that worsen dry eye symptoms. If left untreated, blepharitis can contribute to chronic inflammation and further block the meibomian glands, creating a cycle of discomfort and dryness.
 

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If you experience frequent or persistent dry eye symptoms, it’s time to visit your optometrist. Symptoms that warrant professional care include:

• Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensations in your eyes

• Redness or watery eyes

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Light sensitivity

• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

• Crusting along the eyelid margins

Your optometrist can perform specialized tests to determine the root cause of your dryness and create a personalized treatment plan to relieve symptoms and improve tear quality.
 

Advanced Treatment Options

At Lake Lanier Eye Care, we use advanced technology to treat chronic dry eye and restore healthy tear function:

• OCuSOFT® Thermal 1-Touch™ - Provides controlled heat therapy to improve gland function and relieve discomfort.

• BlephEx® Eyelid Cleaning System - Exfoliates the eyelid margins to remove debris, bacteria, and biofilm that contribute to inflammation and MGD.

These targeted treatments address the underlying causes of chronic dry eye, offering long-lasting relief beyond what artificial tears can provide.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation at Lake Lanier Eye Care

Chronic dry eye is more than just a nuisance - it’s a sign that your eyes need specialized care. With proper diagnosis and advanced treatments, you can protect your vision and enjoy lasting comfort.

If you’re struggling with ongoing dryness or irritation, schedule a consultation with Lake Lanier Eye Care today. We can identify the cause of your symptoms and design a treatment plan to help your eyes feel their best. Visit our office in Sugar Hill, Georgia, or call (678) 926-3525 to book an appointment.