Dry Eye - symptoms and treatments
If you’re experiencing discomfort such as stinging, burning, or a gritty sensation in your eyes, you may be suffering from this common condition.
Learn more about Dry Eye
Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is a broad term describing any range of factors that reduce the volume of tears in the eye. Tears protect the front of the eye, providing lubrication and nutrients to the cornea and creating a smooth front surface for clear vision. They consist of a watery layer to keep the eyes moisturised with an oily layer on top. The oily layer is particularly important for maintaining a smooth surface for consistent vision, and preventing excessive tear evaporation. A reduction in the tear layer may be caused by blocked or poor performing oil glands.This is called Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (aka MGD).
Without good oils, the tears cannot lubricate the eye properly, causing symptoms which vary from a constant niggle, to severe irritation that affects your quality of life. This leads to dryness, irritation, redness and blurred vision.
- Blurry, fluctuating vision
- Feeling the need to blink more often
- Dryness
- Gritty, irritated sensation
- Stinging or achiness
- Overly-watery eyes
- Eye and eyelid redness
- Sensitivity to light
Symptoms can be different for everyone, and fluctuate due to environmental factors; such as wind, air conditioning, artificial lighting, using your computer or smartphone, air pollution, driving, wearing contact lenses etc.
It is worth mentioning that Dry Eye tends to affect females more than males, and can be part of the natural ageing process (especially during menopause). It might also appear in the form of a side effect to many medications, including oral contraception. If you have arthritis, asthma, gout, diabetes, or are over 40 years old, you may be more at risk for this condition.
While Dry Eye is often chronic and requires ongoing management, symptoms can be effectively managed and alleviated with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments. With the help of optometric care, including the use of artificial tears, prescription medications, and environmental modifications, individuals can experience significant relief from Dry Eye symptoms.
Treatment options for Dry Eye vary depending on the severity and underlying causes. Artificial tear drops or lubricating eye ointments can provide relief by supplementing natural tear production. In more severe cases, prescription medications or procedures like punctal plugs, which help retain tears in the eyes, may be recommended.
Talk to an expert
Don’t let Dry Eye symptoms impact your daily life. Our experienced team can diagnose and manage Dry Eye, providing relief and improving your eye health. Take the first step towards comfort and clearer vision – schedule your appointment now!