When Should I Seek Treatment for Dry Eye?
- Posted on: Feb 15 2025
Dry eye is a common condition that can significantly affect your quality of life, making daily activities uncomfortable or even painful. At Physicians Eye Clinic, our team of outstanding eye doctors specializes in diagnosing and treating dry eye, offering advanced options tailored to your needs. If you’re wondering when to seek treatment, recognizing the signs of dry eye and understanding its progression can help you decide when it’s time to consult an eye care professional.
Symptoms That Indicate You Should See a Doctor
Occasional dryness or irritation in the eyes can often be managed with over-the-counter solutions, but persistent or worsening symptoms require professional evaluation. Seek treatment if you experience:
- Constant dryness, stinging, or burning sensations
- Sensitivity to light
- A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
- Redness or inflammation
- Blurred vision that improves with blinking
- Excessive tearing, which can paradoxically be a sign of dry eye
These symptoms may indicate underlying issues that go beyond temporary discomfort and require medical attention.
Risks of Delaying Treatment
Untreated dry eye can lead to more serious complications over time, including corneal damage and increased vulnerability to eye infections. It can also significantly impact your vision, causing ongoing frustration and reducing your ability to focus on daily tasks. Early intervention not only alleviates discomfort but also helps preserve your eye health and vision.
Advanced Treatment Options at Physicians Eye Clinic
At Physicians Eye Clinic, we offer a range of advanced treatments designed to address the root causes of dry eye. Options may include:
- Prescription eye drops for long-term symptom relief
- Punctal plugs to help retain natural tears
- Punctal cautery to permanently close the drainage holes
These innovative solutions go beyond temporary fixes, providing lasting relief and improving your overall eye health.
When to Schedule an Appointment
If your symptoms persist for over a week, or over-the-counter treatments fail to provide relief, it’s time to see an eye care professional. Individuals with certain risk factors—such as frequent screen use, aging, or medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis—should proactively address dry eye symptoms.
Don’t let dry eye disrupt your life. Physicians Eye Clinic’s experienced team, with over 40 years of dutifully serving the Everett, WA community, is here to provide compassionate, effective care. Contact us at (425) 259-2020 to schedule a consultation today and explore treatment options that work for you.
Posted in: Dry Eye
