Why Do My Eyes Feel Dry But Still Water?
It’s one of the most frustrating things about dry eye: your eyes feel scratchy and irritated, yet they’re constantly watering. How does that make any sense?
This symptom is more common than most people think — and it’s caused by tear quality, not quantity. When the eyes don’t produce enough stable, lubricating tears, they often overcompensate by flooding with reflex tears. These are watery and ineffective, evaporating too quickly to actually soothe the eye.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye:
- Stinging, burning, or gritty sensations
- Redness or inflammation
- Blurry vision, especially after screen time
- Excessive tearing
- Sensitivity to light
- Trouble wearing contact lenses
- Fluctuating or unstable vision
If these symptoms feel familiar, it’s time to go beyond over-the-counter drops and get a clear diagnosis.
What Causes Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye isn’t just about dry weather or tired eyes — it’s a complex medical condition that involves an unstable tear film. Your tears are made up of three layers (oil, water, and mucus), and when any of those layers are out of balance, the eyes can’t stay comfortably lubricated.
Possible Causes of Dry Eye:
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
- Inflammation of the eyelids or tear glands
- Hormonal shifts (especially during and after menopause)
- Long hours of screen use (reduced blinking)
- Wind, HVAC systems, and seasonal dryness
- LASIK surgery or use of certain medication
- Autoimmune conditions
Because dry eye can often be mistaken for allergies, it’s critical to get a proper diagnosis. Premier Eye Doctors uses advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint exactly what’s causing your symptoms.
What to Expect from a Dry Eye Evaluation
Premier Eye Doctors takes a comprehensive, tech-forward approach to dry eye care. Your first visit isn’t just a basic eye exam — it’s a deep dive into the health of your tear film, glands, and ocular surface.
Your Evaluation May Include:
- Tear volume and evaporation testing
- Meibography imaging (to assess oil glands)
- Non-invasive tear breakup time (TBUT)
- Ocular surface staining with diagnostic dyes
- InflammaDry testing to check for inflammation markers
This data helps us build a customized care plan that targets the root cause of your discomfort.
How We Treat Dry Eye at Premier Eye Doctors
Dry eye treatment is not one-size-fits-all. At Premier Eye Doctors, we offer a range of advanced therapies designed to treat the underlying issues — not just the symptoms.
Our In-Office Treatment Options Include:
- OptiLIGHT IPL: Light pulses target inflammation and improve gland performance
- OptiPLUS Radiofrequency: Uses heat and gentle massage to unclog blocked glands
- LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation: Heats and clears the meibomian glands in a single in-office session
- OptiLift Muscle Stimulation: Strengthens the muscles responsible for blinking and lid closure
- Punctal Plugs: Tiny inserts that help your eyes retain moisture for longer periods
Most patients begin to notice relief after just two or three sessions, with results building over time as tear stability improves.
Home Strategies That Support Long-Term Comfort
Dry eye relief doesn’t stop in the office. Premier Eye Doctors often recommends lifestyle changes that can make a big difference in how your eyes feel day to day.
At-Home Tips:
- Stay well-hydrated
- Use preservative-free artificial tears
- Take regular breaks from screens and blink intentionally
- Keep your eyelids clean with OTC lid scrubs
- Use a humidifier during dry seasons or in air-conditioned spaces
These small changes — especially when paired with in-office care — can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Dry Eye Treatment in Collingswood, Marlton, and Medford, NJ
Dry eye can take a real toll on your daily life, from work and driving to simply enjoying time outside. With advanced technology, evidence-based protocols, and personalized care at every step, our doctors help patients restore comfort and clarity to their vision. Whether you’ve been dealing with dry eye for months or years, relief is closer than you think.
Let’s Get You Feeling Better
Don’t settle for another day of red, gritty, or watery eyes. Get to the root of the issue with a personalized evaluation from the dry eye specialists at Premier Eye Doctors.
Call us or request an appointment online today — our team in Collingswood, Marlton, and Medford, NJ is ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
Not unless your insurance plan requires one — most patients can book directly.
Will insurance cover the evaluation?
Yes, dry eye exams are typically billed through medical insurance.
When will I start feeling better?
Most patients begin to notice improvement after their second or third treatment session.
Can I wear contacts during dry eye treatment?
You’ll remove them during any procedure, but most patients can continue wearing contacts afterward.
Are there any home remedies that actually help?
Yes — blinking regularly, staying hydrated, and maintaining lid hygiene are all helpful for daily relief.
