What are Dry Eyes?


 Dry eyes occur when the tear film on the surface of your eye is insufficient, leading to discomfort and irritation. Common symptoms include redness and irritation, which can be a scratchy sensation, blurred vision (often intermittent), and a sticky or mucus-like feeling in the eyes. Many individuals also report experiencing a foreign body sensation—as if something is in their eye.


One of the most frequent complaints is burning and watery eyes. It may seem counterintuitive, but watery eyes can actually be a sign of dry eye syndrome. When the eyes become too dry, they may overproduce tears as a reflex response. Dr. Croley takes the time to explain this process to patients, helping them understand the underlying cause of their symptoms.

The Role of the Tear Film

Your tear film consists of three essential layers:
  • Mucus Layer – The innermost layer that helps tears spread evenly across the eye.
  • Water Layer – The middle layer that provides hydration and nourishment.
  • Lipid (Oily) Layer – The outermost layer that prevents evaporation and keeps tears stable.
For healthy eyes, all three layers must be present in the right balance. When any of these components are deficient, the tear film becomes unstable, leading to irritation and inflammation. Over time, this chronic irritation can damage eye cells, causing further inflammation and worsening symptoms.

If you’re experiencing persistent eye discomfort, seeking proper diagnosis and treatment can help protect your vision and improve your quality of life.

Get Your Vision Checked Today


At the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida, our board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. James E. Croley III, uses state-of-the-art tools and techniques to help his patients manage their eye conditions. Dr. Croley is a member of the following professional organizations:
Schedule an appointment online or call our office near you!

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