Understanding the Different Types of Dry Eye

Dry eye is one of the most common reasons people visit an optometrist near you, and it can be more than just an occasional annoyance. That gritty, burning, or watery feeling often points to an underlying imbalance in your eyes’ tear production. Understanding the different types of dry eye can help you find the right care and lasting relief.

At Tiburon Family Eyecare in Gretna, NE, our team provides personalized dry eye treatment near you designed to address the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Two Main Types of Dry Eye

There are two primary types of dry eye, and many people actually have a combination of both.

1. Evaporative Dry Eye (EDE): This is the most common form of dry eye and is usually linked to a problem with the oil layer of your tears. Tiny glands along your eyelids, called meibomian glands, produce oils that keep tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, the tears dry up faster than they should — leading to irritation, redness, and that constant feeling of dryness.

2. Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye (ADDE): This type occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough of the watery part of your tears. It’s often related to age, certain medications, or conditions like autoimmune disorders. Without enough moisture, the eyes can become dry, itchy, and more prone to infection.

Common Symptoms and When to See an Eye Doctor

Dry eye can cause burning, stinging, redness, blurred vision, and even excessive tearing — a sign that your eyes are trying to overcompensate. If you’ve noticed these symptoms lasting more than a few days, it’s time to visit a dry eye treatment specialist near you.

An experienced optometrist can identify which type of dry eye you have and create a custom treatment plan. This may include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, eyelid hygiene routines, or in-office procedures to improve tear quality.

Call Our Optometrist Near You to Learn More About Dry Eye

At Tiburon Family Eyecare, we take the time to understand your unique symptoms and lifestyle so we can tailor your dry eye treatment for lasting comfort.

Call  (402) 933-5775  to schedule an appointment today and discover how caring, personalized eye care in Gretna, NE, can help you see and feel your best again.