Dry Eye - Everything you need to know

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Dry Eye – Everything you need to know

Length: 2 minutes read

Date added: 02/04/23

Author: Optical Team

In order to maintain our vision and comfort, our eyes need to stay moist and lubricated. Our tears are the natural way for our eyes to have continuous moisture and lubrication. “Dry eye” is a condition where the eye either does not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly to maintain moisture in the eye. Dry eyes can be a common and bothersome condition, affecting individuals of all ages.

SYMPTOMS OF DRY EYE INCLUDE:

Uncomfortable, gritty eyes
Redness – the white of the eye appears red
Light sensitivity
Blurred vision
Itchiness
Tired eyes
Confusingly, one common symptom is excessive eye watering, especially in windy weather

CAUSES OF DRY EYE

There are many causes for Dry Eye. It can affect anyone, although it becomes more common as we get older.
Common causes include:

Structural problems of the eyelid – which prevent proper closure of the eye
Diseases which affect the ability to produce tears.
These can include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Collagen vascular disease
- Sjogren’s syndrome
Side-effects of medication such as:
- Birth control pills
- Antihistamines

HOW TO TREAT DRY EYE

Many people with dry eye experience mild irritation with no long-term effects. However, if the condition is left untreated or becomes severe, it can produce complications that can cause eye damage, potentially resulting in impaired vision.

These few lifestyle changes are known to help with dry eye relief:

Regularly using artificial tear drops and ointments to keep your eyes lubricated – this is often the main treatment option
Reduce prolonged reading, watching television, electronic devices, and driving
Avoid dusty, smoky, windy areas especially aeroplanes, air conditioners, and heaters
Refrain from rubbing your eyes
Try to blink more regularly
Humid places, such as the shower, may offer some relief
Hydrate your eyes by drinking more water
The eye condition blepharitis can co-exist with dry eyes. It is advised that you perform daily eyelid cleansing routine (warmth, massage and cleanse)

THERE ARE OTHER TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE:

Steroid eye drops are very effective for short-term use. They quickly manage inflammatory factors alongside providing artificial tears to replace the lost moisture.
Punctal Plugs are a trusted option for chronic dry eye relief. They work by blocking the tear duct to stop tears from draining away into the nasal passages. Meaning natural moisture can remain in the eye and keep moisture levels higher. There are different options available so mention your interest at your next eye examination and our optometrist can advise which options would be best for your circumstance.
Read our FAQs about Punctal Plugs
Lipiflow is an automated, in-office dry eye treatment
Nutritional supplements as part of a holistic treatment plan
Restasis, which aims to reduce inflammation

LOOKING AFTER YOUR EYES

An eye examination is a vital health check and should be part of everyone’s regular health care. In this appointment you can discuss your dry eye symptoms and your optometrist will provide you with their recommended treatment options.

Begin your journey by booking an eye examination.