Dry Eye

Dry Eye means that your eyes may not be making enough tears, that the tears which are being produced are of poor quality or that the tears that are produced evaporate away.

The normal function of tears is to keep the surface of the eye wet and lubricated so any shortage of tears or reduction in their quality can produce a gritty, burning sensation of the eyes and can also disturb vision.

The symptoms of Dry Eye syndrome may include:

Dryness

Burning, stinging or itching

Gritty feeling

Irritation from wind or smoke

Blurred or smeary vision

Tired eyes

Red eyes

Excessive watering

Photophobia

Contact lens discomfort

What are the causes of Dry Eye?

Ageing

Blepharitis

Dry environment and pollution

Computer use

Contact lens wear

Preservatives

Hormonal changes, especially in women e.g. menopause

Certain types of medications. (CAUTION: do not alter or adjust your prescribed medicines without discussing with your Doctor). Your optometrist or Doctor can advise of any known links between medicines and Dry Eye.

The Dry Eye Clinic

This specialist clinic has been introduced to deal with widespread problem of 'dry eye'.

At the dry eye clinic the many different causes of dry eye will be carefully investigated and appropriate management determined. Our specialist service will assess the symptoms, undertake a detailed examination of the eyes, then recommend the latest eye drops, eye lid hygiene, heat and massage treatments to alleviate the discomfort associated with dry eye.

Following up appointments are also scheduled to fine tune the treatment plan for a period of up to three months. As this service is not covered by the NHS a professional fee will be charged.

The New Blephex Clinic

BlephEx™, the newest treatment for blepharitis, is an in-practice procedure performed directly by the eye care practitioner. With BlephEx™ the clinician thoroughly and precisely eliminates the scurf and bacterial debris, the main causes of inflammatory lid disease.

Common symptoms of blepharitis:

Itching or scratchy eyes

Foreign body sensation

Tearing

Crusting

Redness/inflammation

Mattering

Dry eyes

Eye rubbing

Properly performed, BlephEx™ will reduce or alleviate these debilitating and chronic symptoms. Treatments are typically repeated at regular monthly intervals depending on the severity of the disease. By eliminating the inflammatory cause of blepharitis, the overall health of the eyelid is improved. Patients can then begin to produce more of their own tears and finally enjoy a life free from the chronic and irritating symptoms associated with blepharitis and its subsequent dry eye disease.

An up-to-date eyesight test is required, so call us to make an appointment today.