5 Dry Eye Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Your eyes rely on a healthy, stable tear film to stay comfortable, hydrated, and clear. When that balance is disrupted, it can lead to a condition known as dry eye syndrome - a common but often overlooked problem that affects people of all ages. Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes irritated, red, and sometimes blurry.

While mild dryness can come and go, ongoing symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. Here are five key signs of dry eye that may indicate it’s time to visit your eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and lasting relief.
 

1. A Burning or Stinging Sensation

A persistent burning, stinging, or gritty feeling in your eyes is one of the most common symptoms of dry eye. This happens when your tear film lacks the proper balance of oil, water, and mucus, leaving your eyes unprotected and inflamed.
 

2. Blurry or Fluctuating Vision

If your vision seems to blur, especially after reading, driving, or using screens, dry eyes may be to blame. Tears help maintain a smooth, clear surface on the cornea - without enough moisture, your vision can become inconsistent throughout the day.
 

3. Redness and Irritation

Red, irritated eyes are often a sign of inflammation caused by chronic dryness. If you find your eyes frequently appear bloodshot or feel uncomfortable, it’s time to schedule an eye exam to rule out other underlying conditions like blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
 

4. Sensitivity to Light

Dry eyes can make your eyes more sensitive to bright light, causing discomfort indoors or outdoors. This sensitivity occurs because an unstable tear film leaves your cornea more exposed to light and air.
 

5. Excessive Tearing

It might seem strange, but watery eyes can actually be a symptom of dry eye disease. When your eyes are dry and irritated, they may overproduce reflex tears that lack the proper oils to stay on your eyes long enough to provide relief.
 

Why You Should See an Eye Doctor

While over-the-counter eye drops may provide temporary relief, they often don’t address the root cause of your symptoms. Our optometrist can perform a thorough evaluation to determine what’s contributing to your dry eyes - whether it’s meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), blepharitis, or another underlying condition. At Harmony Eyecare & Eyewear Gallery, we offer personalized treatment options that target the underlying causes of dry eye rather than just masking the symptoms. From advanced in-office therapies to tailored at-home care plans, Dr. Mileham and our team helps you achieve lasting comfort and clearer vision.

Relieve Dry Eye Symptoms with Expert Care

Ignoring the signs of dry eye can lead to chronic discomfort and even long-term damage to your eyes. If you’re experiencing persistent irritation, blurry vision, or excessive tearing, professional care can make all the difference.

Schedule your dry eye evaluation at Harmony Eyecare & Eyewear Gallery to restore comfort and protect your long-term eye health. Visit our office Harmony, Pennsylvania, or call (724) 453-4926 to schedule an appointment today.