Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by discomfort, redness, and a gritty sensation in the eyes, it occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. While the symptoms can be bothersome, diagnosing dry eye is essential to provide appropriate treatment and relief. At Today’s Vision, our team is dedicated to ensuring that each patient receives an accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan. Here’s a look at how dry eye is diagnosed and what you can expect during your visit.

Patient History & Symptom Review

The first step in diagnosing dry eye is a thorough review of your medical history and symptoms. Your eye doctor will ask about any discomfort you’ve been experiencing, such as burning, irritation, or blurry vision, and how long these symptoms have persisted. They may also inquire about lifestyle factors like screen time, environmental conditions, and your use of contact lenses, which can all impact tear production and eye health.
 

Tear Film Evaluation

Tears are made up of three layers: oil, water, and mucus. Each of these layers plays a critical role in keeping the eyes lubricated. To diagnose dry eye, your optometrist will evaluate the quality and quantity of your tear film. This can be done through several diagnostic tests, each designed to assess different aspects of tear production and function.
 

Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) Test

One common test used to diagnose dry eye is the Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) test. During this test, a special dye, typically fluorescein, is applied to your eyes. Your optometrist will then use a slit lamp to observe how long it takes for your tear film to break up after you blink. A quicker break-up time may indicate that your tear film is not stable, a hallmark sign of dry eye.
 

Schirmer’s Test

Schirmer’s test is another widely used method to measure tear production. Small strips of paper are placed under your lower eyelids to collect your tears. After a few minutes, your eye doctor will measure how much moisture the strips have absorbed. If your eyes do not produce enough tears, this could confirm a diagnosis of dry eye.
 

Osmolarity Testing

Tear osmolarity testing measures the saltiness (osmolarity) of your tears. Higher levels of salt can indicate that your tear film is imbalanced, a key sign of dry eye syndrome. This test is quick and painless, helping your doctor determine whether your tears are too concentrated and contributing to your dry eye symptoms.
 

Meibomian Gland Evaluation

The meibomian glands are responsible for producing the oil layer of your tears. If these glands are blocked or not functioning properly, it can lead to dry eye. Your optometrist may perform a meibomian gland evaluation by gently pressing on your eyelids to assess the oil production. Dysfunction of these glands is a common cause of dry eye, particularly in those with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
 

Inflammation Testing

In some cases, dry eye is linked to inflammation on the surface of the eye. Your optometrist may use a test to detect specific markers of inflammation in your tears. Identifying inflammation helps your doctor tailor your treatment plan to address the underlying causes of dry eye.
 

Why Early Diagnosis is Important

Diagnosing dry eye early is essential for preventing further complications. Left untreated, dry eye can lead to damage to the eye’s surface, increasing the risk of infections and vision problems. By understanding the cause of your dry eye, your optometrist can recommend treatments such as artificial tears, prescription medications, or advanced therapies like intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy or punctal plugs.
 

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Today’s Vision Today

At Today’s Vision, we are committed to providing thorough dry eye evaluations using the latest technology and diagnostic techniques. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to maintaining healthy, comfortable eyes.
 

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of dry eye, contact Today’s Vision to book your dry eye evaluation and take the first step toward lasting relief. Visit our office in Laguna Niguel, California, or call (949) 518-0055 to book an appointment today.