Dry eye is extremely common, and it’s well-known for causing discomfort, vision issues, and irritation. It develops due to all kinds of reasons, and it’s often associated with a constant stinging sensation on the eye’s surface. But how long do these symptoms last?
While some cases of dry eye are temporary, others can be extremely complex. Sometimes symptoms recede within a few hours, and other times last for days, weeks, and even months. If you constantly experience dry eyes, visit your optometrist. Through dry eye therapy, we can help you find lasting relief.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition linked to an imbalanced tear film. This film, responsible for protecting the eyes, is extremely sensitive. It requires a mix of 3 layers to protect your eyes:
- Oils, which prevent evaporation
- Water, which flushes away particles while hydrating the eye
- Mucus, which keeps the tear attached to the eye
When balanced properly, this tear film provides a smooth protective surface for your eye. It lets light pass through unobstructed while washing away bacteria, dirt, and debris. It’s a key part of a healthy visual system.
However, this tear film can become unbalanced due to different factors. When the balance is thrown off, the eye is vulnerable and unprotected. It can’t properly support your eyes and you’ll notice irritation and inflammation, like the eyes are drying out.
Common Symptoms Of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms vary in severity from person to person. However, they tend to flare up when you’re in a particularly harsh environment. If there’s wind, smoke, or even dry air, you’ll likely notice a persistent stinging sensation that makes your eyes water.
However, the symptoms don’t just appear during a flare-up. Dry eye typically causes:
- A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
- Stinging or burning sensations
- Eye redness or extra sensitivity to light
- Difficulty focusing or blurred vision
- Discomfort when wearing contact lenses
- Overly watery eyes and discharge
These symptoms can be temporary or chronic. For some people, they only last for minutes at a time. Other people deal with these symptoms for months on end. Dry eye is complex, and it can be extremely irritating. If you notice the signs of dry eye, visit your optometrist to discuss treatment options.
What Causes Dry Eye?
Almost anything that affects the tear film can cause dry eye. The human eye is extremely sensitive, so it can easily be affected by:
- Aging or hormonal changes
- Environmental factors like wind, smoke, or dry air
- Certain medications that reduce tear production
- Underlying medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases
- Infections and buildup around the eyelids, like blepharitis
Sometimes, multiple factors work together to offset your symptoms. Identifying your specific triggers makes it much easier to address your condition.
How To Treat Dry Eye
To begin treating dry eye, it’s essential to visit your optometrist. They can thoroughly examine your eyes and assess the health of your tear film. This gives them valuable information to tailor a treatment to your exact needs.
Here at Pinnacle Eyecare, we typically recommend a mix of the following:
- Artificial tears. These come in both over-the-counter and prescription forms. Eye drops help supplement and stimulate your natural tear film to keep your eyes protected.
- Medications. Some prescription medications (or antibiotics if necessary) can reduce inflammation and stimulate your tear production.
- Warm compresses. These help stimulate the glands in your eyelids to promote the flow of oils to your tear film. Warm compresses also improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
- Punctal plugs. These are tiny devices placed in the tear ducts. This helps keep tears on the surface of your eye to keep the eye protected.
These treatments aim to reduce irritation and improve the balance of your tear film. They’re a great way to find temporary or lasting relief from your dry eyes.
Tips To Prevent Dry Eye
Taking small steps can make a big difference. Dry eye is often preventable—this helps stop symptoms from developing and reduces potential irritation.
Here are some practical tips for preventing dry eye:
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air
- Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to block wind and dust
- Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
- Add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, such as salmon and walnuts
- Stay hydrated, as this gives your tear film the water it needs
These simple lifestyle adjustments can make a meaningful difference.
Dealing With Dry Eye? We Can Help
Living with dry eye can feel frustrating, but you don’t have to suffer needlessly. Getting the right dry eye treatment can make all the difference in the world. Whether you’re dealing with temporary dry eye or chronic symptoms, our team at Pinnacle Eyecare is ready to help you manage your dry eye.
Book an appointment with us today—let’s work together to find the relief you deserve.
