You’re doing the homework and added dry-eye care to your new routine…but how do you know it’s working?
Here’s a few things you might notice:
- Your eyes appear less red, including the areas around your eyelids.
- Wearing contact lenses and/or makeup isn’t an increasing discomfort throughout your day.
- You find that your eyes stay comfortable during tasks like working on the computer or driving.
- Your vision is clear and more consistent.
- You experience fewer episodes of watery, gritty, or itchy eyes.
Here’s what your eye doctor will notice:
- Reduced inflammation on and around your eyes.
- The glands in your eyelids are producing cleaner oils for your tears.
- Your tears have returned to their optimal balance (comprising over 2000 components!), providing oxygen, nutrients, and protection to your eyes.
- Fewer irregular blood vessels on your eyelids and the whites of your eyes.
- Your tears are evaporating more slowly.
- Decreased disruption of cells on your cornea, preventing scarring during the healing process.
- Less calloused or damaged tissue beneath your eyelids.
- Reduced accumulation of biofilms and microorganisms on your eyelashes.
Be patient with your eyes! It’s likely that when they stop needing your constant attention during the day, you may not even realize the absence of symptoms. The real progress in your hard work shines through during your follow-up appointments with your eye doctor.
