Dry Eye and Glaucoma

Dry eye syndrome and glaucoma often occur together. Many patients notice irritating symptoms but don’t always realize they are related to dry eye.

People with dry eye commonly describe excessive tearing, blurry vision, or a gritty, sandy feeling in their eyes. A comment we hear often is, “My eyes just don’t feel right; they bother me throughout the day.”

Dry eye disease can look different from person to person and may show up in subtle, on-and-off ways. When these symptoms are recognized and treated, patients are often relieved and grateful to have an explanation and a plan.

Having both dry eye syndrome and glaucoma can be challenging for patients and their eye doctors. As we age, the risk of both conditions increases. Dry eye affects an estimated 40–50% of glaucoma patients, with higher rates among women.

Managing both conditions requires careful balance and prioritization. Treating dry eye is important for comfort and overall eye health, but glaucoma carries an immediate risk of permanent vision loss, so it usually must take priority. Even when dry eye causes significant discomfort, protecting vision with glaucoma treatment often comes first.

Many factors can contribute to dry eye syndrome, including eyelid inflammation, reduced blinking (often from reading or screen use), long-term use of glaucoma eye drops, dry or windy environments, prior eye conditions, systemic diseases, and certain medications.

Effective care typically involves a customized treatment plan. Options may include artificial tears, in-office gland treatments such as LipiFlow, moisture-preserving strategies, and prescription medications that target inflammation. Sometimes glaucoma therapy is adjusted as well, for example by choosing preservative-free eye drops or considering laser treatment to lessen the impact on the ocular surface.

Both glaucoma and dry eye disease are long-term conditions that require ongoing care. Staying consistent with treatment—especially with eye drops—can be demanding, but maintaining a healthy eye surface is essential for comfort, eye health, and the success of glaucoma treatments.

Living with both glaucoma and dry eye can feel like a heavy burden. While neither condition is typically “curable,” they can be effectively managed. Working closely with your eye care team helps protect your vision, improve comfort, and support the best possible long-term outcomes.