Eye Conditions

Dry Eye Syndrome

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Dr Robert Bourke

Dr Lewis Lam

Dr Sharon Morris

Dr Daniel Allbon

Dr Darryl Gregor

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What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Every time you blink, a thin tear film is swept over the eye surface that is essential to lubricate, moisturise and provide protection to the eye surface.

To maintain eye comfort and health, this tear film needs to remain intact between blinks and meibomian glands in the eyelids secrete oils to slow evaporation of these tears.

Dry eye syndrome is a common chronic condition that occurs when natural tears aren’t able to provide adequate moisture or they evaporate too quickly.

Over time, the resulting dryness can lead to inflammation and damage of the eye’s surface.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of dry eye can vary and it is commonly confused with other conditions, such as allergies.

Occasional blurred vision
Eye fatigue or tiredness
Stinging or a burning sensation
Increased sensitivity to light
Redness or inflammation of the eye surface
Feeling of grittiness or something in eye
Itchy eyes, particularly in corners
Mucus in or around your eyes
Sleep disturbances
Depression

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Every time you blink, a thin tear film is swept over the eye surface that is essential to lubricate, moisturise and provide protection to the eye surface.

To maintain eye comfort and health, this tear film needs to remain intact between blinks and meibomian glands in the eyelids secrete oils to slow evaporation of these tears.

Dry eye syndrome is a common chronic condition that occurs when natural tears aren’t able to provide adequate moisture or they evaporate too quickly.

Over time, the resulting dryness can lead to inflammation and damage of the eye’s surface.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of dry eye can vary and it is commonly confused with other conditions, such as allergies.

Occasional blurred vision
Eye fatigue or tiredness
Stinging or a burning sensation
Increased sensitivity to light
Redness or inflammation of the eye surface
Feeling of grittiness or something in eye
Itchy eyes, particularly in corners
Mucus in or around your eyes
Sleep disturbances
Depression

What causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye can affect anyone, but is more common as we get older as we naturally produce a smaller volume of tears. It is particularly common in postmenopausal women and people with arthritis.

Other risk factors include:

Medication – including oral contraceptives, antidepressants, antihistamines, diuretics and beta-blockers
Climatic conditions – such as dry air and wind
Irritants – such as cigarette smoke, dust or chemical exposure
Trauma to the eye
Infrequent or incomplete blinking
Long periods of screen time
Laser or cataract surgery
Poor nutrition (low in vitamin A)
Wearing contact lenses

Dry Eye Syndrome: Overview

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Treatment of Dry Eye Syndrome

While dry eye syndrome cannot be cured, ongoing treatment can help to relieve symptoms and prevent complications including, infections, pain, corneal ulcers, corneal scars and vision loss.

Artificial tears via preservative free eye drops and ointments
Limit screen time (computer/tv) and blink more often
Apply warm compresses
Practice good eyelid hygiene by keep eyelids clean on a daily basis
Dietary changes – increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids
Environment changes – limit time in air-conditioned or heated environments and use a humidifier

In severe and chronic cases, other treatment options may be recommended:

Prescription of medicated eye drops such as steroids, immunomodulatory and hormone type drops
Noninvasive procedure to insert punctal plugs that will close the ducts draining tears from your eyes into your nose

Dry Eye Treatment: Overview

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Dry Eye Treatment: Punctal Plugs

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