Are Your Eye Drops Enough for Dry Eye Relief? When to Seek Professional Treatment

Dry eye is a common condition affecting millions of people, characterized by discomfort and vision issues that can significantly impact daily life. While over-the-counter eye drops are a popular first-line defense, they may not address the underlying causes of dry eye. At Nash Eye Care, we are dedicated to providing advanced diagnostics and personalized treatments to ensure long-lasting relief. 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance can lead to irritation, inflammation, and damage to the eye’s surface. Several factors, including aging, environmental conditions, screen use, and medical conditions, can contribute to dry eye.
 

Understanding Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

A significant cause of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands, located along the edges of your eyelids, produce the oily layer of your tear film that prevents tears from evaporating. When these glands become clogged or fail to function properly, the stability of your tear film is compromised, leading to dryness and discomfort.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Common symptoms of dry eye include:
 

• Persistent dryness, irritation, or scratchiness
   

• Redness or inflammation
   

• Sensitivity to light
   

• Blurry vision
   

• A feeling of something gritty in the eyes
   

• Watery eyes
   

If these symptoms persist despite using artificial tears or worsen over time, it may be a sign that over-the-counter treatments are insufficient.
 

When to Seek Professional Treatment

While mild cases of dry eye may respond to eye drops, chronic or severe dry eye often requires professional evaluation and treatment. Consider seeking care at Nash Eye Care if:
 

• You rely on eye drops multiple times a day without relief
   

• Your symptoms are interfering with your daily activities
   

• You experience worsening redness, pain, or blurred vision
   

• Watery eyes are a constant problem
   

Advanced Diagnostics at Nash Eye Care

We leverage advanced technology to accurately diagnose dry eye and its underlying causes. Our comprehensive evaluations include tear film analysis to assess tear composition and quality, meibomian gland testing to evaluate the function and health of the glands, and inflammation testing to detect any contributing factors. This precise diagnostic approach enables us to create personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
 

Effective Dry Eye Treatments

Depending on the root cause and severity of your dry eye, we offer tailored treatments designed to provide effective relief and address the underlying issues. Medications can play a vital role in reducing inflammation and stimulating increased tear production. These targeted treatments are often more effective than over-the-counter options, offering long-term relief and improved eye comfort.
 

Omega-3 fatty acids are a natural way to enhance tear quality and support the function of your meibomian glands. Incorporating these supplements into your routine can provide additional support to your eye health and reduce symptoms of dryness.
 

Additionally, eyelid hygiene treatment is an effective solution for maintaining the health of your eyelids and managing conditions like dry eye and blepharitis. This treatment involves thorough cleansing and exfoliation of the eyelids to remove debris, bacteria, and oils that can clog the meibomian glands.
 

Take Control of Your Dry Eye at Nash Eye Care

Dry eye can significantly impact your quality of life, but effective relief is possible with the right care and treatment. At Nash Eye Care, we go beyond temporary solutions to address the root causes of your discomfort, using advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans.
 

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, contact Nash Eye Care to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and explore personalized treatment options. Visit our office in Nash, Texas, or call (903) 741-7720 to book an appointment today.