Why Some Dry Eye Treatments Take Time to Work

If you’ve been struggling with dry, irritated eyes, you know how frustrating it can be to find lasting relief. Many patients expect results within a few days, but treating dry eye disease often takes time. Understanding why certain treatments work gradually can help set realistic expectations and ensure you stay consistent with your prescribed care plan.

Understanding the Root Cause of Dry Eye

One of the most common causes of chronic dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD. The meibomian glands, located along your eyelids, produce the oily layer of your tear film that prevents tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, your tears evaporate faster than normal, leading to dryness, irritation, and blurry vision.

Because MGD develops gradually, treatment also requires time to restore normal gland function. Warm compresses, in-office therapies, and prescription eye drops can help, but the healing process depends on how long the glands have been compromised and how well you follow your treatment plan.

Why Over-the-Counter Treatments May Fall Short

Artificial tears and lubricating drops are widely available, and while they can provide temporary comfort, they don’t address the underlying inflammation or gland dysfunction. Over-the-counter drops may mask symptoms for a few hours, but if your meibomian glands are not producing healthy oils or if there’s inflammation along your eyelids, the dryness will persist once the drops wear off. Patients who rely solely on store-bought eye drops often feel stuck in a cycle of short-term relief without long-term improvement.

The Importance of a Dry Eye Evaluation

The best way to find lasting relief is to schedule a dry eye evaluation with our eye doctor. At Dr. Jenny Hung Optometry, we take a detailed approach to diagnosing dry eye disease, identifying whether the root cause is MGD, inflammation, reduced tear production, or environmental stress. Once we understand the cause, we can recommend a customized treatment plan designed for lasting comfort.

Benefits Prescription Treatments

For many patients, prescription eye drops like Restasis® and Xiidra® play a vital role in treating chronic dry eye. These medications work by reducing inflammation on the eye’s surface and helping your body produce more natural tears. However, they typically take several weeks to reach full effect.

Patience and consistency are key. Even if you don’t feel immediate improvement, it’s important to continue using your prescribed drops as directed. Over time, you’ll likely notice less irritation, better tear stability, and more comfortable vision.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation Today

Dry eye treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach and lasting results rarely happen overnight. By identifying the underlying cause, such as MGD, and following a customized treatment plan that may include prescription options like Restasis or Xiidra, you can achieve meaningful, long-term relief.
 

If your eyes feel dry, irritated, or tired, don’t settle for temporary relief. Contact Dr. Jenny Hung Optometry for a dry eye evaluation to determine the cause and best course of treatment. Visit our office in Rosemead or Chino, California. Call (626) 312-2712 or (909) 590-0921 to book an appointment today.