Tear film
Aqueous-deficient dry eye
The lacrimal glands supply the watery fluid in a tear. If that supply falls, the eye surface can become uncomfortable even when the eyelid oil glands are working.
Book a dry eye evaluationClues in your history
Persistent grittiness, burning or difficulty wearing contact lenses can bring people in. Mention dry mouth, an autoimmune condition such as Sjögren’s disease, or a recent medication change. These details help your doctor decide what to investigate.
How we assess tear supply
Your doctor looks at the small reservoir of tears along the lower lid and may measure tear production with a paper strip. Examining the pattern of surface staining and how tears spread after a blink helps put those measurements in context.
Protecting the surface
Preservative-free lubrication and prescription drops are among the options your doctor may discuss. In some cases, punctal plugs can slow tear drainage. With more significant surface disease, serum tears or a specialty lens may be considered.
Will I need another medical evaluation?
If your eye findings and health history suggest a broader condition, your optometrist can explain when it makes sense to involve your primary care clinician or rheumatologist.
Patient education at Village Eyes Optometry · Meet the doctors
Sources & further reading
Westwood Village
Start with a closer look.
Meet with a dry eye doctor in Westwood to understand your symptoms and your options.