Dry Eye Progression Guide
mild
moderate
most severe
increasingly
severe
Without treatment, dry eye can progress to the most severe stage. Symptoms such as burning, stickiness, light sensitivity, blurry vision, and itching are constant and severe enough to disrupt daily life.
Long-term dryness can cause damage and scarring on the surface of the cornea.
Surgery may be necessary to connect the upper and lower eyelids. This procedure partially closes the eye to give it a chance to heal. A doctor can then reopen the eye.
By this stage, the eyes are very dry. The composition of remaining tears changes, leading to more inflammation and
a rougher eye surface. More damage to the cornea occurs. Symptoms such as pain and the feeling of something foreign in the eye are constant.
In addition to previous treatments, autologous serum eye drops made from the person’s own blood may be used. They increase eye lubrication and promote healing. But insurance may not cover it.
mild
At this stage, eye redness, grittiness, and dryness worsen. Symptoms may be irritating enough to limit daily activities.
There may be inflammation in the conjunctiva and possibly dry spots in the tear film that covers and protects the eye.
Treatment at this stage may include lubricating or steroidal
or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory eye drops. Special plugs can also be placed into the tear ducts to help keep more
tears inside the eyes.
Mild burning, itching, and blurred vision are common in the early stage of dry eye. People may blink often or rub their eyes. Symptoms might only occur with exposure to wind or dry air.
The conjunctiva (membrane that covers the front of the eye) may be inflamed.
Artificial tears, moisturizing gels, and ointments help treat
mild dry eye. Holding warm compresses to the eyes and using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can also relieve symptoms.
moderate
increasingly
severe
most severe
