Dry, irritated eyes are a common complaint - but not all dryness is the same. Some people experience occasional dryness, while others live with chronic discomfort that signals an underlying condition. Understanding the difference between occasional dry eye and chronic dry eye can help you know when it’s time to seek professional care.

Understanding Occasional Dry Eye

Occasional dryness can happen to anyone. It often results from temporary factors such as:

• Spending long hours on digital devices

• Being in dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments

• Wearing contact lenses for extended periods

• Dehydration or lack of sleep

For most people, these symptoms improve with simple adjustments - like taking screen breaks, using artificial tears, staying hydrated, or running a humidifier indoors. These quick fixes can help restore moisture to the eyes when dryness is mild and temporary.

What Is Chronic Dry Eye?

Chronic dry eye is a long-term condition that typically doesn’t improve with over-the-counter eye drops alone. It’s often linked to underlying issues that affect the tear film’s stability and quality. 

One of the most common causes is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), which occurs when the oil glands along your eyelids become blocked or produce poor-quality oil. This leads to faster tear evaporation and ongoing dryness. Another frequent cause is blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid margins that interferes with the glands responsible for tear production.

Over time, chronic dry eye can cause persistent burning, redness, fluctuating vision, and the sensation that something is constantly in your eye. Without proper treatment, it can lead to long-term irritation and damage to the surface of the eye, emphasizing the importance of identifying and addressing the root cause early.

When to See an Eye Doctor

If your eyes frequently feel dry, gritty, or irritated - or if your symptoms keep returning - it’s time for a comprehensive dry eye evaluation. Occasional dryness should not become a constant part of your life. With professional diagnosis and treatment, you can protect your vision and restore comfort.

Advanced Treatment Options

At NewView Family Eyecare, we go beyond temporary relief and focus on treating the underlying causes of chronic dry eye. One effective option is ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment), a gentle, in-office procedure that removes debris and bacteria from the lash line, helping restore eyelid and gland health. 

We also offer OptiLight IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy, a light-based treatment that targets inflammation and improves oil flow from the meibomian glands. This non-invasive solution is particularly effective for patients with MGD-related dry eye.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation Today

While occasional dryness is usually temporary and manageable at home, chronic dry eye is a medical condition that requires professional attention. Modern treatments like ZEST and OptiLight IPL offer long-term relief and help you maintain healthy, comfortable eyes.

Schedule your dry eye evaluation with NewView Family Eyecare to find lasting relief from dry eyes. Visit our office in Waterloo, Iowa, or call (319) 236-2020 to book an appointment today.