Dry Eyes

What’s going on?

Tears are vital to lubricate and maintain the health of the surface of the eye. If you have deficient tear production you may have problems keeping your cornea wet and healthy. If the eye dries it can lead to a gritty or burning sensation. Paradoxically, your eye may water, as the cornea dries up so much that the tear gland releases a big bolus of ‘reflex’ tears, causing intermittent watering. This typically occurs when moving from warm to cold air conditions or vice- versa.

What will my ophthalmologist see?

We can see the tear film and quantify exactly how bad the drying is. We can also assess the health of the cornea.

What will my ophthalmologist do for me?

Topical lubricants are the mainstay of treatment for this disorder. We can advise you as to which type is best for your condition.  Sometimes we can close of the

What can I do?

Using the drops is important. If you have associated lid margin disease we may give you special instructions as to how to clean the lids.

What do I need to know?

Unfortunately dry eye tends to be a lifelong problem.

Symptoms tend to be worse with reading or looking at a computer screen as your blink rate slows. It is sensible to use lubricant drops before such activities.