Do your eyes often feel dry, gritty, or unexpectedly watery? These bothersome symptoms are more common than you might think - and they could be your body’s way of signaling dry eye syndrome. Understanding what dry eye is, how to recognize the signs, and why professional treatment matters can make all the difference in your comfort and long-term eye health.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears they do produce are of poor quality. Tears are essential for keeping your eyes lubricated, comfortable, and free of debris. When the delicate balance of your tear film is disrupted, you may start to notice a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

Recognizing the Signs

Dry eye syndrome can affect people in different ways, but some of the most common signs and symptoms include:

• A dry, scratchy, or gritty feeling in your eyes

• Redness or irritation

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision that may improve with blinking

• Excessive tearing

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek a professional evaluation.

How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?

Diagnosing dry eye syndrome involves more than a simple conversation about your symptoms. At Eyes of Starwood, our eye care professionals use a combination of thorough patient history, advanced imaging, and tear quality assessments to determine the underlying cause of your discomfort. This can include measuring your tear production, examining the structure of your eyelids and tear glands, and evaluating the surface of your eyes under specialized microscopes.

The Benefits of Professional Dry Eye Treatment

While over-the-counter eye drops can provide temporary relief, they don’t address the underlying causes of dry eye syndrome. Professional diagnosis and treatment can:

• Identify and treat the root cause of your symptoms

• Provide tailored solutions such as prescription eye drops, in-office procedures, or lifestyle recommendations

• Prevent long-term complications, such as corneal damage or chronic irritation

• Improve your daily comfort and quality of life

By seeking expert care, you can get on the path to clearer, more comfortable vision.

Find Lasting Relief from Dry Eye Symptoms

Living with dry, gritty, or watery eyes can make everyday activities uncomfortable and impact your quality of life. Recognizing the signs of dry eye syndrome and seeking expert care is the first step toward lasting relief. With a professional diagnosis and personalized treatment, you can address the root cause of your symptoms and protect your long-term eye health.

Contact Eyes of Starwood to schedule your dry eye assessment and discover effective solutions tailored to your needs. Visit our office in Frisco, Texas, or call (972) 544-4300 to book an appointment today.