Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are made of three layers—oil, water, and mucus—that work together to keep your eyes comfortable and your vision clear. A disruption in any of these layers can lead to dry eye symptoms. Common causes include aging, hormonal changes (especially in women), autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, and blockages in the oil-producing glands of the eyelids. Environmental factors like wind, dry air, smoke, and prolonged screen use can also worsen dry eye symptoms.

What are the symptoms of dry eye?

Dry eye often affects both eyes and presents with a variety of symptoms. Patients may describe a gritty or scratchy feeling as if something is in the eye. Common symptoms also include:

• Burning or stinging sensation
• Eye redness
• Sensitivity to light
• Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
• Excessive tearing (a reflex to dryness)
• Blurred or fluctuating vision, especially when reading or using screens

If these symptoms persist for more than a few days or interfere with daily activities, it’s important to consult an eye care professional.

How is dry eye diagnosed?

• An optometrist or ophthalmologist will take a detailed medical history and conduct a comprehensive eye exam. Diagnostic methods may include:
• Slit-lamp exam: A microscope is used to inspect the eyes for signs of dryness or damage.
• Schirmer test: Small paper strips are placed under the lower eyelids to measure tear production.
• Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT): This test assesses how quickly tears evaporate from the eye surface.
• Eyelid and gland evaluation: To detect blockages or inflammation in the meibomian (oil) glands.

Advanced cases may require blood tests or specialized tear analysis to rule out autoimmune diseases or inflammation.

What are the most effective treatments?

Dry eye treatment is typically tailored to the severity and root cause of the condition. Many people find relief through a combination of at-home care and medical therapies. Common treatment options include:

• Artificial tears: These over-the-counter drops provide temporary lubrication. Preservative-free versions are ideal for frequent use.
• Warm compresses and eyelid hygiene: Applying heat to the eyelids helps unblock oil glands and improve tear stability. Daily cleansing can also reduce inflammation caused by blepharitis.
• Environmental modifications: Using a humidifier, taking screen breaks, and wearing protective eyewear can reduce tear evaporation.
• Prescription medications: Anti-inflammatory eye drops like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) can help improve tear production and reduce inflammation over time.
• In-office procedures: Advanced options like LipiFlow thermal pulsation or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy are used to treat blocked oil glands.
• Punctal plugs: Tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to slow drainage and retain tears on the eye surface.
• Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil or flaxseed oil) may improve tear quality and reduce inflammation.
• Autologous serum drops: In severe cases, eye drops made from a patient’s own blood serum can be highly effective.

Treatment plans are often adjusted over time as symptoms improve or change.

Are home remedies helpful?

Yes, many home remedies can relieve mild to moderate symptoms and support other treatments:

• Use warm compresses daily to loosen clogged oil glands.
• Blink more often, especially during screen time.
• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Avoid smoke, wind, and direct airflow from fans or air conditioners.

These steps are safe, easy to follow, and effective when used consistently.

How long does treatment take to work?

The timeline varies depending on the treatment. Lubricating eye drops and warm compresses can provide immediate but temporary relief. Prescription medications may take a few weeks to several months to show full effects. For instance, cyclosporine may take around three months, while lifitegrast often works within a few weeks. In-office procedures and punctal plugs can provide faster results. Because dry eye is a chronic condition, long-term treatment is frequently necessary to maintain comfort and prevent complications.

Is dry eye permanent?

While dry eye is generally a chronic condition, it can be managed successfully. There is no cure, but with consistent treatment and follow-up care, most patients can control their symptoms and protect their vision. Long-term success relies on medical therapies, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring by your eye care provider.

References:

• American Optometric Association
• National Eye Institute
• Mayo Clinic
• Cleveland Clinic
• Jones L, et al. TFOS DEWS II Management and Therapy Report. Ocular Surface.
• Craig JP, et al. TFOS DEWS II Definition and Classification Report. Ocular Surface.