Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, such as irritation, redness, and a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes. Dry eye can be a chronic and progressive condition, and if left untreated, it can potentially lead to more serious complications.
 

What Causes Dry Eye?

One of the leading causes of dry eye is a condition called meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands are located along the edges of the eyelids and are responsible for producing the oily component of the tear film. When these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, it can lead to an imbalance in the tear composition, resulting in dry eye symptoms.
 

Other contributing factors include age, certain medical conditions (such as Sjögren's syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis), environmental factors (such as exposure to dry or windy environments), and certain medications. 
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Symptoms of dry eye can include:
 

• Redness or irritation in the eyes
   

• A burning or stinging sensation
   

• Feeling of grittiness or foreign object in the eye
   

• Blurred vision
   

• Sensitivity to light
   

• Watery eyes
   

• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
   

Tests and Procedures for Diagnosing Dry Eye

Diagnosing dry eye involves a combination of tests and procedures to assess the severity of the condition, the underlying causes, and the overall health of the eye. One of the most common tests is the Schirmer test, which measures tear production. During this test, small strips of paper are placed under the lower eyelid to absorb tears. The amount of moisture on the strip after a few minutes indicates the level of tear production, helping to determine if the eyes are producing enough tears to keep the surface lubricated.
 

Another essential diagnostic tool is the Tear Breakup Time (TBUT) test, which evaluates the stability of the tear film. A fluorescein dye is applied to the eye, and the patient is asked to blink. The optometrist then uses a slit lamp with a blue light to observe how quickly dry spots appear on the cornea. The time it takes for the tear film to break up can help identify the severity of dry eye and any issues related to tear evaporation.
 

The Osmolarity test is another widely used procedure to measure the concentration of solutes in the tears, offering insight into tear quality. Elevated osmolarity indicates a deficiency in the protective tear film, often seen in patients with dry eye disease. 
 

Other diagnostic tools, such as Meibomian gland imaging and meibography, allow doctors to evaluate the function and structure of the oil-producing glands in the eyelids. These tests, along with patient history and symptom questionnaires, provide a comprehensive picture for accurately diagnosing dry eye.
 

Based on the results of these tests and examinations, your optometrist will be able to provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific dry eye needs. This may include recommendations for lifestyle changes, the use of artificial tears, prescription eye drops, Lipiflow treatment, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, or Meibomian Gland Probing (MGP).
 

Get Started with Dry Eye Center of Alabama and Family Eye Care Today

Dry eye is a complex and multifactorial condition that requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified eye care professional. By seeking the expertise of an optometrist, you can ensure that your dry eye is properly diagnosed and that you receive the appropriate treatment to alleviate your symptoms and prevent further complications.
 

If you are experiencing persistent dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with the Dry Eye Center of Alabama and Family Eye Care. Our experienced optometrists will perform a comprehensive evaluation and work with you to develop a customized treatment plan to address your specific dry eye needs. Contact our office in Homewood, Alabama, by calling (205) 490-2322 to book an appointment today.