Common Myths About Dry Eye – Debunked

Dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many people live with ongoing irritation, blurry vision, or burning eyes because they believe common myths about dry eye that simply aren’t true. Unfortunately, these misconceptions can delay proper diagnosis and effective treatment. Let’s break down some of the most common dry eye myths and uncover the facts that can help you find real, lasting relief.
 

Myth #1: Dry Eye Only Happens When Your Eyes Don’t Make Enough Tears

One of the most common causes of dry eye is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands, located along the eyelids, produce oils that prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, tears evaporate faster than normal, leading to dryness, irritation, and fluctuating vision - even if your eyes are producing enough tears.
 

Myth #2: Dry Eye Is Just a Minor Annoyance

Dry eye can significantly affect your quality of life and long-term eye health. Chronic dry eye can interfere with reading, screen use, driving, and even sleeping. Over time, untreated dry eye may increase inflammation on the eye’s surface, raise the risk of infection, and cause damage to the cornea. Dry eye is a medical condition, not just an inconvenience - and it deserves proper care.
 

Myth #3: Artificial Tears Are Enough to Treat Dry Eye

Artificial tears may provide temporary relief, but they often don’t address the underlying cause. Over-the-counter eye drops can help soothe symptoms, but they don’t fix problems like MGD or chronic inflammation. For many patients, relying on drops alone becomes frustrating because the relief is short-lived. Effective dry eye treatment starts with identifying why your eyes are dry, not just masking the symptoms.
 

Myth #4: Dry Eye Only Affects Older Adults

Dry eye affects people of all ages. While dry eye is more common as we age, younger adults are increasingly experiencing symptoms due to prolonged screen time, contact lens wear, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits. Digital eye strain and reduced blinking can worsen MGD and tear evaporation, even in otherwise healthy eyes.
 

Myth #5: There’s Nothing That Can Be Done for Chronic Dry Eye

Modern dry eye care has evolved well beyond basic eye drops. At Visual Health Doctors of Optometry, advanced treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy are used to target the root cause of dry eye, especially when MGD is involved.

IPL works by reducing inflammation, improving meibomian gland function, and restoring healthier tear film balance. Many patients experience noticeable improvement in comfort, redness, and vision after a customized treatment plan.
 

Target the Root Cause of Dry Eye at Visual Health Doctors of Optometry

Dry eye myths can keep people stuck in a cycle of discomfort and ineffective treatments. Understanding the real causes and knowing that advanced options like IPL therapy exist can make a life-changing difference.

If you’re experiencing burning, irritation, redness, or fluctuating vision, schedule a dry eye evaluation with Visual Health Doctors of Optometry. Our team uses advanced diagnostics and modern treatments, including IPL therapy, to help you achieve long-term comfort and healthier eyes. Visit any of our offices in Alexandria, Arlington, Ashburn, Burke, Fairfax, Falls Church, Herndon, McLean, Reston, or Woodbridge, Virginia. Contact a location nearest you, or book an appointment on our website today.