Step 1
A short questionnaire will allow us to grade the severity of your symptoms and to formulate an appropriate treatment plan.
It can lead to a gritty, stinging or burning feeling in the eyes. Sometimes the eyes can actually feel watery, but the tears that are produced do not wet the surface of the eye effectively and so do not alleviate the symptoms.
An inflammatory condition of the eyelids where the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked. The lack of oil in the tears causes evaporation and increased saltiness of the tears, which further increases the inflammation.
We are all increasingly using tablets, phones and computers throughout the day. When we use these devices we blink much less frequently and often incompletely. Blinking is essential for refreshing the tear film and so reduced blinking leads to the tear film breaking up and causing corneal dryness.
Most medicines have side effect and many of them can be a source of dry eye.
Central heating, air conditioning, air vents in the car and windy weather can all have a direct drying effect on the eye.
A short questionnaire will allow us to grade the severity of your symptoms and to formulate an appropriate treatment plan.
We use a high resolution camera to photograph and record the condition of your eyelids and lashes before treatment.
We measure the tear osmolarity or ‘saltiness’ of the tears using the latest iPen technology.
A microscopic examination of the tear film to check its stability and assess the extent of corneal dryness.
If Blepharitis appears to be a contributory factor and there is crusting around the eyelash roots which may be blocking the meibomian glands we may recommend a Blephex treatment. This is a painless procedure that will thoroughly clean the eyelids and lashes from debris and clear the gland openings.
The gentle application of pressure to the meibomian glands to express the oils that keep your tears stable and your eyes moist.
Discussion of further measures that can be taken at home to manage the condition and prevent a recurrence of symptoms.
The discomfort associated with Dry Eye Syndrome is often underestimated. It can be very uncomfortable and the constant source of irritation can be very distressing. However, with appropriate diagnosis and treatment it can be brought under control and symptoms alleviated.