Dry Eyes
Symptoms
It is important to be seen very quickly if the dry eyes cause any of these three symptoms:
- Sensitivity to light
- Severe pain
- Reduced vision
Many people paradoxically, develop ‘watery eyes’ which may be caused by the irritation creating too many tears or an unstable tear film which does not adequately coat and adhere to the surface of the eyes.
If the symptoms are mild and can be managed with simple treatments and recommendations about care of the eyes and lids.
Treatments
In mild cases, with no vision disturbance it is safe to use an ‘over the counter tear drop’ which can relieve a temporary dry eye and be a short treatment.
Where there is an associated cause which leads to recurring problems, it is important to identify the issue and either reduce the exposure or modify the environment to relive the dry eyes.
Adequate management of associated lid disease such as ‘blepharitis’ is very important and often requires support for longer term control.
It is important to identify any inflammation early and treat it, usually with topical medication.
Very rarely a surgical procedure to ensure the tears drain away from the eye surface is required.
Self- Care of Dry Eyes
Keep your eyes clean, with gentle bathing of the lids.
Take extra care in windy, dry, cold or dirty environments.
Ensure you have regular checks if you wear contact lenses.
If you work on a ‘screen’ ensure you remember to ‘blink’ and take regular eye breaks.
