Majority of US patients with dry eye experience symptoms weekly, survey finds

Findings from a recent national survey commissioned by TheraTears has found that as many as 3 in 4 American patients experience dry eye symptoms weekly and are more severe than a minor irritation.¹ Of the 1000 patients with dry eye symptoms surveyed, 80% stated that “they would try a science-backed eye drop that mimics natural tears and restores tear-film balance,” according to a news release.

The survey was conducted by OnePoll on October 2025.¹ The release cited the following as factors for the worsening of dry eye symptoms:

• Screen time
• Seasonal changes
• Sleep deprivation

"Modern life takes a toll on our eyes, from endless hours in front of screens to fluctuating weather patterns," said Elise Kramer, OD, in the release. “Not all eye drops are the same. TheraTears rebalances the tear film at the source, providing clinically proven hydration and long-lasting comfort that restores natural balance."

Other findings from the survey demonstrated that 76% of patients experienced symptoms daily or multiple times a week at an average discomfort rating of 6.1 out of 10. Specifically, almost half of those patients rated their discomfort at 5 or higher, with 10% reporting severe levels at 8 or higher. Additionally, 34% of patients stated that their symptoms had worsened over the past year, with 8% reporting improvement over that time period. Of the triggers cited for worsening dry eye symptoms, screen time was reported the most at 70%, weather shifts at 50%, allergies at 45%, and lack of sleep at 30%.¹

Patients also reported that dry eye symptoms affected their quality of life, citing reduced focus, red eyes, and eye strain. These effects thus impacted the patients’ productivity, confidence, and overall well-being, according to the release.¹

Additionally, a knowledge gap in what causes dry eye and the treatment options available to them is evident in the surveyed patients. About two-thirds of patients reported that they “were unaware that dry eye stems from a salt imbalance in the tear film, creating an opportunity for education on science-driven relief,” the release stated. Patients also were unaware of what was in their OTC drops. With 66% utilizing these drops, almost half (48%) reported that they never checked the ingredients in said drops. However, 92% of patients experienced symptom relief when their dry eye was properly managed.¹

About the drops

The release cited that TheraTears drops feature a unique formulation which contains OxyLytes, or the 5 electrolytes that are found in natural tears. TheraTears was initially developed by Jeffrey P. Gilbard, MD, who was the youngest scientist to have received project grant funding from the National Eye Institute in his work to find a solution to dry eye. Now, the company provides a variety of OTC options for dry eye, including drops, eye gel, and supplements.²

References

1. Amid rising screen time and lifestyle stress, new survey reveals 3 in 4 Americans battle dry eye symptoms weekly. News release. PR Newswire. December 3, 2025. Accessed December 3, 2025. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/amid-rising-screen-time-and-lifestyle-stress-new-survey-reveals-3-in-4-americans-battle-dry-eye-symptoms-weekly-302630930.html

2. What makes TheraTears unique? TheraTears. Accessed December 3, 2025. https://www.theratears.com/what-makes-theratears-unique