Are you constantly reaching for eye drops throughout the day? Do your eyes often feel dry and gritty like there’s sand in them? While everyone occasionally gets dry eye, if your symptoms persist or appear to be getting worse, you may suffer from dry eye disease. Dry eye disease is a very common condition, and in more serious cases, it can damage the surface of your eyes and affect your vision if left untreated. In this blog post, we will explore some common dry eye symptoms that you should never ignore. 

Gritty eyes 

If your eyes often feel dry or gritty, especially in dry environments or after staring at screens for long periods, you might have dry eye. This sensation can be uncomfortable and may get worse throughout the day. If you’re constantly using eye drops to find relief, it’s important to see our dry eye specialists in Elgin and Kildeer, Illinois for a proper diagnosis and treatment.  

Persistent redness 

One of the most common symptoms of dry eye syndrome is persistent redness in the eyes. If your eyes are often red and bloodshot, it might mean they’re not making enough tears or the right kind of tears. Ignoring this symptom can lead to further discomfort and even damage to your eyes. 

Blurry vision 

Another symptom of dry eye disease that shouldn’t be overlooked is blurry vision. When your eyes don’t get enough moisture, it can affect the clarity of your vision and lead to intermittent blurriness. If you notice that your vision is frequently blurry, especially after prolonged periods of reading or screen time, it may be time to seek treatment for your dry eye symptoms. 

Light sensitivity 

Sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia, is another common symptom associated with dry eye syndrome. This can make it difficult to tolerate bright lights or sunlight, leading to discomfort and squinting. If you find yourself avoiding well-lit areas or experiencing discomfort in bright environments, it may be a sign of underlying dry eye disease that needs attention. 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms related to dry eye disease, don’t ignore them! By seeking professional help and addressing your symptoms early on, you can relieve discomfort and improve the health of your eyes in the long run. Quality Eye Care Clinic offers advanced dry eye treatment options in Elgin and Kildeer, Illinois including LipiFlow®, BlephEx®, TempSure Envi, and PROKERA amniotic membrane treatment.  Don’t wait until your symptoms get worse—schedule an appointment with our experienced team today!