Dry eyes have become increasingly common in today’s digital world. Hours spent on computers, phones, and other screens can cause us to blink less often, reducing the natural moisture that keeps our eyes comfortable and protected. For many people, this leads to feelings of dryness, irritation, or blurry vision after long stretches of screen time.
Occasional dryness is easy to manage, but when symptoms persist, they can point to a more serious issue. Without proper care, chronic dry eyes may cause lasting damage to the eye’s surface, and in rare cases, even affect your vision long term.
The Risks of Untreated Dry Eyes
While uncommon, leaving dry eyes untreated can cause lasting harm to your vision. Here are some of the possible complications:
Corneal Damage
The cornea—the eye’s clear, outer layer—helps focus light. Healthy tears keep the cornea smooth, moisturized, and protected. Without enough lubrication, inflammation can occur, leading to scarring and tissue damage. This can impair vision and, in rare cases, cause permanent vision loss.
Increased Risk of Eye Infections
Tears act as a natural barrier against bacteria and debris. Chronic dryness weakens this defense, increasing the risk of eye infections. If left untreated, these infections can cause ulcers or scarring that may permanently affect vision.
Vision Impairments
Untreated dry eyes can lead to fluctuating or blurry vision. Without proper lubrication, the eye’s surface becomes irregular, distorting how light enters. This can cause sensitivity to light, double vision, or difficulty with everyday tasks like reading or driving.
Underlying Conditions
Sometimes, dry eyes point to a deeper health issue such as Sjögren’s syndrome—an autoimmune condition that reduces tear and saliva production. If unmanaged, these kinds of conditions can worsen dry eye and, in severe cases, threaten vision.
Contact Lens Discomfort
Contact lens wearers are more prone to dry eyes because contact lenses absorb the tears in your eyes, which causes a decrease in the amount of liquid available to moisturize your eyes . Prolonged dryness while wearing contacts can increase the risk of corneal ulcers and infections, both of which require immediate care to prevent long-term damage.
How to Relieve Dry Eyes and Protect Your Vision
The good news is that there are several simple steps you can take to maintain healthy eyes and reduce the risk of complications from dryness. Being proactive can help you enjoy lasting comfort and clear vision.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water supports your whole body—including your eyes. Aim for 8–10 glasses of water each day to help maintain healthy tear production.
Use Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter lubricating drops can add much-needed moisture, especially if you spend long hours on digital devices or in dry, air-conditioned environments.
Take Screen Breaks
If your work involves extended screen time, schedule regular breaks. Pair these breaks with a few drops of artificial tears to help keep your eyes comfortable. Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds while remembering to blink.
Protect Your Eyes Outdoors
Sunglasses can shield your eyes from drying winds and harmful UV rays. Choose wraparound frames for extra protection.
Seek Professional Care
If dryness is persistent or worsening, consult an eye care professional. They can assess the underlying causes of your condition and recommend a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Treatments for Chronic Dry Eyes
For those experiencing persistent dryness, professional treatments can provide effective relief that goes beyond home remedies. Here are some options your eye care provider may recommend:
Omega 3
Some people turn to omega-3 fatty acids for relief. This simple, non-invasive option uses nutrients found in fish and supplements like fish oil to support eye health. By reducing inflammation and improving tear quality, omega-3 fatty acids can help ease the symptoms of dry eye disease over time. Over the counter supplements are available and you can check with optometrist for specific options.
Prescription & Over-the-Counter Drops
Prescription eye drops may help reduce inflammation and improve tear production for those with chronic dryness. Preservative-free artificial tears can also provide daily hydration. Ask your optometrist which option is best for your eyes.
Meibomian Gland Expression
Meibomian gland dysfunction is a common contributor to dry eye, caused when the tiny glands in your eyelids don’t release enough oil. Meibomian gland expression is a quick, in-office procedure where gentle pressure is applied to the eyelids to clear blockages and restore healthy oil flow. This helps improve tear film stability and ease dry eye discomfort.
Protect Your Eye Health with Insight Vision Care Optometry
While dry eyes may seem like a small concern, leaving them untreated can create chronic problems that affect your comfort and vision. The good news is that effective treatments and preventive strategies are available—and you don’t have to manage your condition alone.
At Insight Vision Care Optometry, our team is here to listen, uncover the root causes of your symptoms, and create a plan that supports your long-term eye health. If you’ve been struggling with persistent dryness, don’t wait until it disrupts your daily life. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable eyes.
