Think You Have Dry Eye? Here’s Why an Evaluation Matters

If your eyes often feel gritty, itchy, or irritated, you might assume you have dry eye - and you’re probably right. But what many people don’t realize is that dry eye isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. There are many different causes behind the discomfort, and understanding the underlying reason is key to getting lasting relief.

Understanding the Root Cause

While the term “dry eye” makes it sound simple, the condition often involves complex issues with the tear film - the delicate layer that keeps your eyes hydrated and protected. One of the most common causes is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). These tiny glands in your eyelids produce the oil layer of your tears, which prevents them from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, it can lead to chronic dryness, irritation, and even blurry vision.

Another frequent contributor is blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid margins caused by bacteria or debris buildup around the lashes. This can further irritate the eyes and worsen MGD, creating a cycle of inflammation and discomfort that won’t resolve without proper treatment.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Dry Eye Evaluation

At VoloVision, we take a detailed approach to diagnosing dry eye. During your evaluation, our team performs advanced diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms. These may include:

Meibography: Imaging of the meibomian glands to assess their health and function.
Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT): Measures how long your tears remain stable before evaporating.
Osmolarity Testing: Evaluates the salt concentration in your tears to detect inflammation.
Lid Margin and Corneal Staining: Helps identify signs of blepharitis or ocular surface damage.

These tests allow us to go beyond surface symptoms and design a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Personalized Treatment for Long-Term Relief

Once we identify the cause of your dry eye, we’ll recommend the most effective therapies for you. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:

Thermal expression to unclog blocked meibomian glands.
Lid hygiene and exfoliation to manage blepharitis.
Prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation and boost tear production.
Nutritional support and at-home care to maintain gland health and tear stability.

This personalized approach ensures your treatment targets the root cause so you can finally find relief and restore comfort to your eyes.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation Today

If your eyes constantly feel dry, irritated, or tired, don’t ignore it. The cause could be more complex than you think. A thorough evaluation can uncover the underlying factors behind your discomfort and lead to effective, customized treatment that truly works.

Contact VoloVision to schedule your dry eye evaluation and discover how personalized care can make all the difference. Visit our office in Southampton, Pennsylvania, or call (215) 357-8330 to book an appointment today.