Dry eye is a common condition that can cause irritation, burning, fluctuating vision, or the feeling that something is in your eye. For many people, symptoms may come and go, but persistent dry eye can make everyday activities like reading, working on a computer, or driving uncomfortable.
At Northern Virginia Ophthalmology Associates, we evaluate the underlying causes of dry eye and develop treatment plans designed to improve both comfort and vision.
Understanding Dry Eye
Healthy tears are essential for keeping the surface of your eyes smooth, comfortable, and well lubricated. Dry eye can occur when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the quality of your tears does not properly protect the eye’s surface.
Common symptoms may include:
Burning or stinging sensations
Redness or irritation
Blurry or fluctuating vision
Sensitivity to light
A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
Excess tearing (a response to dryness)
Dry eye can be influenced by many factors, including screen use, aging, medications, environmental conditions, and certain medical conditions.
A Personalized Approach to Treatment
During your evaluation, your doctor will examine your eyes and discuss your symptoms to determine what may be contributing to your dry eye.
Treatment recommendations may include:
Lubricating eye drops or artificial tears
Prescription medications
Eyelid hygiene or warm compress treatments
Lifestyle or environmental adjustments
Additional therapies when needed
Because dry eye can have several causes, treatment often focuses on improving the health of the tear film and supporting the natural function of the eye.
Finding Relief
Dry eye symptoms can affect both comfort and quality of vision, but effective treatment options are available. Our goal is to help you find lasting relief so your eyes feel more comfortable throughout the day.
If you’re experiencing ongoing dryness, irritation, or fluctuating vision, an evaluation can help determine the best path forward.