When dry eyes mean more than just irritation

Most of us get dry eyes occasionally- after a day at the computer, when the weather is windy, or if we’re tired. But sometimes dry eyes can be a sign of something more serious.

If your eyes are constantly dry, sore, or red, it’s worth paying attention. Chronic dry eye can affect your vision, your quality of life, and even your long-term eye health.

Here’s how to tell when it’s time to stop ignoring the irritation and get your eyes checked.

What is chronic dry eye?

Dry eye happens when your tears don’t keep the surface of your eyes properly lubricated. This can happen if you:

• Don’t produce enough tears
• Produce poor-quality tears that evaporate too quickly
• Have blocked oil glands in your eyelids.

When dry eye becomes constant, lasting weeks or months instead of just a few hours, it’s considered chronic dry eye syndrome.

When dry eye is more than a nuisance

Occasional dryness is usually harmless, but here are signs it could be something more:

• Constant discomfort: Burning, stinging, or grittiness that doesn’t go away
• Blurry vision: Especially if it improves after blinking
• Watery eyes: Paradoxically, excessive tearing can signal chronic dryness
• Red, inflamed eyes: Ongoing redness or irritation
• Light sensitivity: Feeling uncomfortable in bright light
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses: They become uncomfortable or fall out.

These symptoms can interfere with work, driving, and daily life.

Possible underlying causes

Persistent dry eyes can be linked to other health issues, including:

• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids
• Meibomian gland dysfunction: Blocked glands that reduce tear quality
• Autoimmune conditions: Such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or Sjögren’s syndrome
• Diabetes or thyroid disease
• Medication side effects: Antihistamines, beta blockers, or antidepressants.

Why untreated dry eye is a problem

Ignoring chronic dry eye can lead to:

• Damage to the corneal surface
• Increased risk of infection
• Eye strain and headaches
• Reduced quality of life.

Long-term inflammation can even cause scarring in severe cases.

When to see an eye doctor

If your symptoms are persistent or worsening, book an eye exam. An eye specialist can:

• Check your tear production
• Measure tear quality
• Look for blocked glands or eyelid inflammation
• Rule out underlying conditions.

Early diagnosis means more effective treatment and prevention of complications.

Treatment options

There are many ways to manage chronic dry eye, including:

• Lubricating drops or gels
• Warm compresses and eyelid cleaning
• Prescription medications to reduce inflammation
• Punctal plugs to keep tears in the eye longer
• In-office procedures to clear blocked glands.

Treatment is often personalised to your type of dry eye and its cause.

Take your symptoms seriously

Dry eyes aren’t just a minor annoyance, they can be a sign of a treatable condition. The sooner you get them checked, the sooner you can get relief.

Next steps

Take our free self-test to see if you might have chronic dry eye and could benefit from a professional assessment.