Dry eye disease can be extremely frustrating and upsetting for people who suffer from it.
It is a multifactorial condition which affects one in five adults, caused by a chronic lack of moisture to the surface of the eye.
Dry eye symptoms can range from a combination of a stinging or burning feeling, occasional blurred vision, redness, constant tiredness (like you always need to close your eyes) and/or the feeling that you have something like an eyelash in your eye.
Dry Eye Relief
Mild dry eye disease can be relieved with artificial tears which lubricate the surface of the eyes.
If you are on the computer for long periods, take a break and look into the distance for 20 to 30 seconds to give your eyes a break. By focusing on a computer screen for long periods most people will blink less. As a result, our eyes become dry. Make a deliberate decision to take breaks from the screen and blink. Blinking renews the tear film which prevents dry spots on the eyes.
Drinking plenty of water, especially in hot weather, can help decrease dry eye symptoms, as will supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids.
Dry Eye Treatment
For those with more severe dry eye symptoms, as part of an ongoing treatment plan, steroid eye drops are used short-term to treat the root cause of the inflammation.
Other treatments that our practice offers for long-term dry eye sufferers include the Blephasteam Heat Therapy to the closed eyelid to soften and unclog the meibomian glands and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment which flashes filtered wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the dilated blood vessels to reduce inflammation. We also offer Rexon-Eye the newest innovation in dry eye treatment, it works by stimulating your oil and tear production systems so you can maintain a healthy tear film naturally.
Dry Eye Tips
Artificial tears will help to lubricate your dry eyes and maintain moisture on the outer surface of your eyes. This will provide relief but it does not treat the underlying cause of your dry eye.
Reduce the time you spend in air-conditioned environments.
Give your eyes regular breaks from digital devices.
Book a dry eye assessment with our optometrist and they will discuss the various Dry Eye Treatment options, and provide a tailored plan to give you long lasting relief of your dry eye symptoms.
If you have questions about dry eye symptoms or would like to book in for dry eye treatment, make an appointment with our optometrists, Jackson or Shaina at Eyecare Plus Mermaid Beach.
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