What Is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears produced evaporate too quickly or are of poor quality. This disrupts the thin tear film that normally keeps the eye’s surface comfortable and clear, leading to irritation and, in more persistent cases, inflammation of the ocular surface.
It’s an extremely common condition that becomes more frequent with age, screen use, certain medications, contact lens wear and environmental factors such as air conditioning or wind.
Common Symptoms
- Gritty, burning or stinging sensation
- Redness and irritation
- Watery eyes (a reflex response to surface dryness)
- Blurred vision that improves with blinking
- Sensitivity to light
- Discomfort when reading, using screens or wearing contact lenses
How Dry Eye Is Assessed
A comprehensive assessment includes slit-lamp examination of the ocular surface, evaluation of tear quality and quantity, and inspection of the eyelid margins and meibomian glands, the structures that keep tears from evaporating too quickly, to identify the underlying cause rather than just treating symptoms.
Treatment Options
Lubricating Drops & Ointments: Tailored to the specific type of tear-film deficiency.
Eyelid Hygiene & Meibomian Gland Treatment: For evaporative dry eye, the most common form.
Anti-Inflammatory Treatment: Where surface inflammation is contributing to symptoms.
Punctal Plugs: To reduce tear drainage in more persistent cases.
Management of Underlying Causes: Including blepharitis, contact lens habits and medication review.
Why Choose Mr Miles Parnell
With a comprehensive ophthalmology background alongside his glaucoma and cataract subspecialties, Mr Parnell takes an individualised approach to dry eye, identifying the specific mechanism behind your symptoms rather than defaulting to generic drops.
FAQs
Can dry eyes be cured?
Dry eye disease is usually a chronic condition that is managed rather than cured, but most patients achieve significant, lasting symptom relief with the right treatment plan.
Are over-the-counter eye drops enough?
Mild cases often respond well to lubricating drops, but persistent or worsening symptoms warrant specialist assessment to identify the underlying cause.
Is dry eye linked to screen use?
Yes. A reduced blink rate during screen use is a well-recognised contributor to dry eye symptoms.
When should I see a specialist about dry eyes?
If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks despite lubricating drops, or start affecting your daily activities, a specialist assessment is recommended.