Vision Therapy in Jefferson City

Spotting the Signs of Dry Eye

(573) 635-1313

Understanding the Symptoms

Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and its symptoms can vary in severity. It's crucial to recognize the signs of dry eye early to seek appropriate treatment and improve your eye health and comfort.

man with sore eyes


Common Symptoms to Look Out For

woman with red eyes

Experiencing dry eye symptoms can greatly affect your daily life and overall health. These symptoms can disrupt your work, hobbies, and even your ability to carry out everyday tasks comfortably.

The constant discomfort and distraction caused by these symptoms can lower your productivity and overall quality of life. 

Here are common signs that may indicate dry eye syndrome:

  • Dryness:
    A persistent sensation of dryness, grittiness, or eye irritation.
  • Itching:
    Frequent itching or a burning sensation in and around the eyes.
  • Redness:
    Bloodshot or red eyes, often accompanied by discomfort.·
  • Excessive Tearing:
    Paradoxically, your eyes may produce more tears as a response to dryness, leading to watery eyes.
  • Blurry Vision:
    Vision may become temporarily blurred, particularly when reading or using digital screens.
  • Light Sensitivity:
    Increased sensitivity to light, known as photophobia.
  • Foreign Body Sensation:
    Feeling as though something is in your eye.
  • Eye Fatigue:
    Increased eye fatigue, especially during prolonged periods of reading, screen time, or other visually demanding tasks.

Ignoring dry eye symptoms can lead to worsening discomfort and potential complications. Chronic dry eye can damage the eye's surface and increase the risk of eye infections, scarring, and vision loss. Seeking professional guidance if you're experiencing any of these symptoms is crucial.


Dry Eye Diagnosis and Expert Care

When you choose Eyes On Missouri - Jefferson City for your dry eye care, you benefit from our expertise in comprehensive diagnosis. We understand that your unique health history and lifestyle can affect your dry eye differently, which is why we practice personalized care tailored to you. Our approach includes:

  • In-Depth Eye Exams

    During a comprehensive eye exam, we evaluate your eyelids, eye surface, and your complete health history and lifestyle to identify potential underlying causes of dry eyes.

  • Tear Assessment

    We conduct a detailed assessment of your tears, measuring their volume and quality. This assessment helps us identify any deficiencies in tear quantity or quality, crucial factors in dry eye diagnosis.

  • Tear Breakup Time

    Using advanced techniques like tear breakup time measurement, we identify specific areas of your eyes where tears may evaporate more rapidly. This information aids in tailoring your treatment plan.

  • Specialized Dry Eye Test: Schirmer Test

    This test involves placing blotting test paper strips on the lower eyelids to measure tear production over a specific time. It helps determine the volume of tears your eyes produce.

Patient Reviews
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1000 Reviews
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- Nov. 23, 2025
2 weeks ago I posted a review that was unfavorable about the staff at Eyes on Missouri. I had a lot ... of trouble with my new glasses. I went in several times for adjustments that didn't help. I was frustrated, and decided that the new glasses would just be put in a drawer. I received a very nice call from front desk staff and went back in for another try. Paige spent time with the adjustment and she got it right! Thank you to the staff for your follow up! I give you 5 stars now!
- Nov. 14, 2025
They were fast and friendly. Each person I encountered was knowledgeable and willing to help me. I n... ever felt like I was a burden or a problem.
- Nov. 12, 2025
Dr Hedepath very thorough and friendly. Her staff was very helpful as well.
- Nov. 11, 2025
Dr Zahn is absolutely amazing! He’s thorough, kind, and really listens to my concerns. He takes th... e time to explain everything clearly and always gives a thoughtful, detailed assessment. I leave every visit feeling well cared for.
- Nov. 09, 2025
The
- Nov. 07, 2025
There was no waiting time. My time was well respected. Doctor is experienced and expert. I recommend... Eyes on Missouri for eye testing.
- Nov. 03, 2025
Great service and I see great from my new glasses
- Nov. 03, 2025
Good
- Oct. 31, 2025
Outstanding customer service! Dr. Hedgpath provided a thorough eye exam and clearly explained everyt... hing about my vision. The front desk staff, along with Paige and Hayley, were exceptionally helpful in selecting eyeglasses, explaining my insurance benefits, and adjusting my frames. I deeply appreciated the friendly atmosphere and how comfortable everyone made me feel. They answered all my questions and ensured I fully understood my prescription. The frame selection was excellent, with options that suited my style and budget. Overall, it was a smooth, pleasant experience from start to finish, and I highly recommend Dr. Hedgpath and her team for quality eye care and exceptional service.
- Oct. 31, 2025
Outstanding customer service! Dr. Hedgpath provided a thorough eye exam and clearly explained everyt... hing about my vision. The front desk staff, along with Paige and Hayley, were exceptionally helpful in selecting eyeglasses, explaining my insurance benefits, and adjusting my frames. I deeply appreciated the friendly atmosphere and how comfortable everyone made me feel. They answered all my questions and ensured I fully understood my prescription. The frame selection was excellent, with options that suited my style and budget. Overall, it was a smooth, pleasant experience from start to finish, and I highly recommend Dr. Hedgpath and her team for quality eye care and exceptional service.
- Oct. 28, 2025
Always friendly, always good care, very good.
- Oct. 27, 2025
Great experience! Everyone is friendly and helpful.
- Oct. 05, 2025
From the minute I walked in the door the Staff were focused on helping me and in helping me see bett... er. Greatly appreciate Doctor and Staff.
- Sep. 25, 2025
Dr Hedgpath is a great doctor!
- Sep. 22, 2025
Jamie was exceptional!
- Sep. 21, 2025
No wait time, very pleasant and very helpful when I was picking out frames. I would definitely use ... them again.
- Sep. 11, 2025
Very quick and easy appointment.
- Sep. 10, 2025
Wonderful first experience for my 8 year old. Eased his fears completely. Friendly and knowledgeable... staff. Quick, but never rushed. Highly recommend!
- Aug. 20, 2025
Great service, knowledgeable staff, and no long wait time before being seen.
- Aug. 18, 2025
I love eyes on Missouri!! it is one of my favorite places to get eye glasses. the eye doctor does ... an outstanding job examining my eyes!! they have a huge selection or variety of glasses to choose from with various brand names like Ray Ban, Nike, Oakley, and many more. the ease of scheduling an appointment is very easy. and their staff and professionals are very kind and courteous and respectful. their eye glasses are very excellent and high quality!! they accept most insurances, but you should check with them first before you purchase any glasses so you know what you have to pay out of your own pocket and get everything squared away. Eyes on Missouri is definitely one of the best places to get eye glasses that suite your needs in Jefferson City, Missouri!!

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Dry Eyes in Jefferson City

Our optometry practice in Jefferson City

Photograph of Elizabeth Hedgpath
Hours
  • Monday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Spectera
  • Anthem
  • Medicaid
  • MetLife

man putting eye drops in eyes

Consult Our Dry Eye Experts

At Eyes On Missouri - Jefferson City, our experienced eye care providers are ready to help you find relief from dry eye symptoms. We understand these symptoms' impact on your daily life and are committed to improving your eye health and comfort.

Contact us to schedule an appointment and discuss your dry eye symptoms. Let's work together to find the most suitable treatment and enhance your quality of life.

(573) 635-1313