If you’re experiencing scratchy, watery eyes or persistent discomfort, you’re not alone. At Classic Vision Care, we go beyond temporary relief; we identify which type of dry eye you have and create a targeted treatment plan to resolve your symptoms. Our doctors diagnose the root cause of your dry eye symptoms and provide solutions that stop the dry, stinging pain. We provide dry eye treatment in Kennesaw, GA, and throughout Georgia.
Dry Eye Isn’t Just One Condition
“Dry eye” is a broad category, not a single diagnosis. Understanding the type of dry eye matters for treatment success. Many people are surprised to learn that dry eye disease has three distinct classifications.
Each type of dry eye has different causes, symptom patterns, and treatment needs. Identifying the correct type allows for more effective, long-lasting relief. Classic Vision Care focuses on diagnosing all forms of dry eye using modern testing methods.
The Three Primary Types of Dry Eye
Without proper diagnosis, many patients struggle to find relief from dry eye symptoms. Understanding which of the three primary types you have,aqueous-deficient, evaporative (Meibomian gland dysfunction), or mixed dry eye, is essential for effective treatment.
Patients experiencing uncomfortable dry eye symptoms can benefit from various targeted remedies. With the help of Classic Vision Care, you can reduce your dry eye symptoms and improve your comfort.
Many people experience dry eye symptoms caused by insufficient tear production or rapid tear evaporation. Contributing factors include increased screen time, which affects people of all ages, and environmental conditions. If you’re experiencing burning or stinging sensations daily, professional evaluation is important; you shouldn’t have to tolerate persistent irritation. Each type of dry eye can be effectively treated at Classic Vision Care.
Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye
Aqueous-deficient dry eye occurs when the lacrimal glands don’t produce enough of the watery (aqueous) layer of tears. It is caused by age-related changes, autoimmune conditions (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome), and certain medications. Common symptoms include persistent dryness, burning, light sensitivity, and feeling like you can’t generate enough tears.
Evaporative Dry Eye (Meibomian Gland Dysfunction – MGD)
Evaporative dry eye, also known as Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), is the most common type of dry eye. It occurs when the oil glands in the eyelids don’t produce enough protective oils, or when these glands become blocked or inflamed. Contributing factors include excessive screen time, blepharitis, and environmental conditions. Common symptoms include burning, redness, fluctuating vision, stinging, and paradoxical excessive tearing caused by rapid tear evaporation.
Mixed Dry Eye
Mixed dry eye is a condition that combines both aqueous deficiency and evaporative problems. This is the most challenging form of dry eye, requiring multi-layered treatment approaches. Common symptoms of mixed dry eye include chronic irritation that worsens throughout the day, plus symptoms from both aqueous-deficient and evaporative categories.
Why Knowing Your Dry Eye Type Matters
Each type of dry eye requires different treatments. What works for one patient might not help another. Incorrect treatment can delay relief and worsen inflammation. Classic Vision Care’s dry eye evaluation includes tear film analysis, gland imaging, and a full medical history review to pinpoint the exact cause.
Dry Eye Symptoms to Watch For
Different types of dry eye can present with overlapping symptoms. Pay attention to when and how your symptoms occur:
Common Dry Eye Symptoms across all types:
- Burning or stinging
- Grittiness
- Excess tearing
- Redness
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Difficulty wearing contacts
- Fatigue or discomfort after screen use
Timing matters: Evaporative dry eye symptoms often worsen in the afternoon or after prolonged screen time, while aqueous-deficient dry eye tends to cause consistent discomfort throughout the day.
Treatments Based on Dry Eye Type
For Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye
Treatment focuses on increasing tear production and retention:
- Prescription anti-inflammatory drops (such as Restasis or Xiidra)
- Nutritional support, including omega-3 fatty acids
- Punctal plugs for severe cases, these tiny silicone or gel plugs are inserted into your tear ducts during a simple in-office procedure to slow drainage and keep tears on the eye surface longer
For Evaporative (MGD) Dry Eye
Treatment targets oil gland function and eyelid health:
- Warm compresses and lid hygiene routines
- In-office therapies such as thermal pulsation, intense pulsed light (IPL), or meibomian gland expression to restore gland function
- Omega-3 supplementation to improve oil quality
- Environmental adjustments to reduce symptoms
For Mixed Dry Eye
A personalized combination of treatments from both categories works best to address multiple underlying causes. Classic Vision Care tailors treatment based on comprehensive test results, not guesswork.
When to See an Eye Doctor
Be sure to visit your eye doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Long-lasting irritation and dryness for more than a week
- Chronic irritation or recurring flare-ups
- Difficulty performing daily tasks
- Trouble wearing contact lenses
- Persistent blurry vision
Classic Vision Care is a trusted provider of comprehensive eye exams and advanced treatment for dry eye symptoms. We provide our patients with advanced dry eye diagnostics and personalized treatment plans designed to reduce symptoms and provide long-term relief.
You Don’t Have to Live With Dry Eye Discomfort
Understanding your dry eye type is the first step toward real relief. With thorough evaluation and targeted treatment, most patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life.
Schedule a dry eye consultation with Classic Vision Care today. We provide dry eye treatment in Marietta, throughout Kennesaw, and the surrounding Georgia area. Call us today to speak with our team of doctors and start your journey to comfortable, healthy eyes.