When to See a Doctor: Recognizing Severe Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eyes may seem like a minor inconvenience, but when symptoms become severe, they can significantly impact your quality of life and overall eye health. At Texas State Optical, we specialize in advanced diagnostic testing and personalized treatments to help manage dry eye effectively.

Recognizing Severe Dry Eye Symptoms

While mild dry eye symptoms, such as occasional irritation or redness, can often be managed with over-the-counter remedies, more severe cases require professional evaluation. Watch out for these signs:
 

• Persistent Eye Discomfort: A constant sensation of dryness, grittiness, or a foreign object in the eye is a red flag.
   

• Blurred Vision: Intermittent or constant blurry vision can indicate that the eye surface is not properly lubricated.
   

• Sensitivity to Light: Photophobia, or light sensitivity, is often a symptom of advanced dry eye disease.
   

• Difficulty Wearing Contact Lenses: If wearing contact lenses becomes increasingly uncomfortable, it may be due to a lack of adequate tear film.
   

• Red, Inflamed Eyes: Persistent redness or inflammation is another indicator that it’s time to seek medical help.
   

Ignoring severe dry eye symptoms can lead to complications such as chronic inflammation, corneal damage, or infections. Early intervention not only alleviates discomfort but also prevents long-term damage to your eyes.
 

Advanced Diagnostic Testing at Texas State Optical

We go beyond basic evaluations to uncover the root cause of your dry eye symptoms. Our advanced diagnostic tools allow us to provide precise and personalized care for effective treatment. One of the key tests we use is the TearLab Osmolarity Test, which measures the salt concentration in your tears. This provides valuable insights into the severity of your dry eye and helps guide treatment options.
 

Another important diagnostic tool is the InflammaDry Test, which detects inflammatory markers in your tears. By identifying whether inflammation is a contributing factor, we can better target the underlying causes of your symptoms.
 

Additionally, we utilize Meibomian Gland Photography, a high-resolution imaging technology. This test allows us to assess the health and functionality of your meibomian glands, which play a critical role in producing the oil layer of your tear film and maintaining overall tear stability. These advanced diagnostics ensure a comprehensive understanding of your condition, paving the way for effective and lasting relief.
 

Personalized Dry Eye Treatments

Every patient’s dry eye condition is unique, which is why we develop customized treatment plans to target your specific needs. Depending on the diagnosis, your treatment options may include:
 

• Prescription Eye Drops: Reduce inflammation and promote tear production with tailored medications.
   

• Punctal Plugs: These tiny inserts help retain tears by blocking drainage, ensuring your eyes stay moist longer.
   

• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): IPL targets inflammation and improves the function of meibomian glands, helping to restore a healthy tear film.
   

• Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT): LLLT uses gentle light therapy to enhance blood flow and reduce inflammation, promoting glandular health and tear production.
   

• MiBo ThermoFlo: This treatment uses therapeutic heat to gently unclog meibomian glands, improving oil secretion and stabilizing the tear film.
   

• Tyrvaya Nasal Spray: A revolutionary FDA-approved treatment, Tyrvaya stimulates the nerves in your nose to increase natural tear production.
   

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation Today

If you’re experiencing severe dry eye symptoms, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Our advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatments are designed to help you find lasting relief.
 

Reach out to Texas State Optical to learn more about how we can help you manage and treat dry eye disease effectively. Visit our office in Buda, Texas, or call (512) 991-8656 to book an appointment today.