Will Dry Eye Eventually Resolve on Its Own?

If your eyes feel dry, gritty, or irritated, you want relief but may not think it warrants a visit to the eye doctor.  Maybe it’s too much screen time or the change in the weather. Whatever it is, you’re hopeful it will go away on its own.

Sometimes it does, but other times the symptoms stick around or gradually get worse. That’s because dry eye is a chronic condition that needs proper care to improve. 

At Stevens Eye Care in Biloxi, Mississippi, Clayton Stevens, MD, addresses the root cause of dry eye so you can feel better and see clearer.

What’s causing your dry eye condition?

Dry eye happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears they do produce aren’t lubricating your eyes properly.

Some of the causes include:

• Long hours on screens
• Aging and hormonal changes
• Wind, dry air, or other environmental conditions
• Contact lens use

Symptoms come and go, and usually include a feeling that you have something in your eye, burning, stinging, and blurred vision.

Will it go away on its own?

It depends. Sometimes it does resolve on its own, but many cases don’t without intervention.

Short-term dryness from lack of sleep or temporary irritation often improves without help. But if your symptoms keep coming back, last for weeks or longer, or interfere with your daily activities, it’s likely not a passing issue.

Dry eye is progressive and can worsen over time if left untreated. Waiting it out can lead to increased discomfort and may even affect the health of your eye surface. If your pain or redness is severe, Dr. Stevens offers emergency eye care and same-day appointments.

Why eyedrops aren’t always enough

Over-the-counter artificial tears can soothe your eyes, but they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. They provide temporary relief but don’t target the root cause. For example:

• If your tears evaporate too quickly, you may need targeted treatment
• If you have inflammation, medicated drops could be more effective
• If your tear glands aren’t functioning properly, you may need additional therapies

That’s why the personalized approach you get here at Stevens Eye Care makes a difference in the speed of your recovery and your long-term outcomes. 

Dr. Stevens evaluates your tear quality, checks for gland dysfunction, assesses underlying inflammation, and identifies any factors that may be contributing to digital eye strain.

Proven treatments for dry eye

Treatments may include advanced lubricating drops, prescription medications, or in-office therapies designed to restore your eye’s natural balance. In severe cases, Dr. Stevens may recommend tear duct plugs to help you retain moisture.

Comfortable, clear vision is just a phone call away. Schedule your visit now by calling our office or booking online.