If you suffer from dry, irritated eyes, reaching for artificial tears may seem like an easy fix. While these drops can provide temporary relief, they’re often not enough to manage the root cause of chronic dry eye. This persistent condition affects millions and can significantly impact your daily comfort and visual clarity.
 

Understanding Chronic Dry Eye

Chronic dry eye occurs when your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This condition can be caused by aging, environmental factors, prolonged screen use, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. Unlike temporary dryness, chronic dry eye is persistent and can worsen over time without proper treatment.
 

Common symptoms include:
 

• A gritty or burning sensation
• Redness and irritation
• Blurred vision that improves with blinking
• Sensitivity to light
• Excessive tearing

Why Artificial Tears Aren’t Always Enough

Artificial tears are a helpful first step. They lubricate the eyes and offer temporary comfort. However, they do not address the underlying cause of chronic dry eye. Many people find that symptoms return quickly or that drops need to be applied frequently throughout the day. This can disrupt daily activities and still leave the eyes feeling uncomfortable. Additionally, some over-the-counter drops contain preservatives that can cause further irritation with long-term use.
 

When to Seek Help

If you find yourself reaching for eye drops multiple times a day or still struggling with discomfort, it’s time to schedule a comprehensive dry eye evaluation. The earlier we identify the underlying cause, the sooner we can create a personalized treatment plan that brings lasting relief.
 

Advanced Dry Eye Treatments

At NewView Family Eyecare, we go beyond artificial tears to get to the root of your dry eye condition. Our advanced diagnostic tools help identify the specific cause, whether it’s meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), inflammation, or tear instability.
 

Depending on the cause, we may recommend:
 

• Punctal plugs: To help your eyes retain natural tears
• Prescription eye drops: To reduce inflammation or increase tear production
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy: To reduce inflammation and improve meibomian gland function
• ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment): A deep cleansing treatment to remove debris and bacteria from the eyelid margins
• Nutritional support: Including omega-3 supplements to support tear quality
• Lifestyle guidance: Addressing screen time, humidity, and hydration

Don’t Settle for Temporary Fixes

Relying on artificial tears alone may not be enough when it comes to treating chronic dry eye. Long-term relief often requires a deeper understanding of what's causing your symptoms and a more comprehensive treatment approach. We’re committed to helping you find lasting comfort through personalized care and advanced dry eye solutions.
 

If dry, irritated eyes are interfering with your quality of life, schedule a dry eye evaluation with NewView Family Eyecare to find the right treatment for your needs. Visit our office in Waterloo, Iowa, or call (319) 236-2020 to book an appointment today.