Dry eye

Dry eye is a very common condition, especially after the age of 50 and in women. It is caused by a change in the tear film, the thin layer of tears that protects and lubricates the surface of the eye.

How to recognise it

The most common symptoms are:

  • a feeling of dryness, grit or a foreign body in the eye
  • burning and redness
  • vision that blurs and improves when you blink
  • discomfort with contact lenses
  • paradoxically, sometimes, excessive tearing

What are the causes?

The main risk factors are age, female sex (partly due to hormonal changes), eye surgery (for example cataract surgery) and certain medicines, such as antihistamines. Environmental factors also contribute: air conditioning and heating, wind, pollution, contact lens wear and many hours in front of screens, during which we blink less.

Why does it occur?

Tears nourish and lubricate the surface of the eye and clean it of dust and impurities. The tear film also has a layer of fats (lipids) that limits its evaporation. When there are too few tears or they evaporate too quickly, the surface of the eye dries out and becomes irritated.

How to get relief

  • Artificial tears: they help hydrate and lubricate the surface of the eye. Many contain hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally present in the eye; some contain liposomes, which supplement the lipid layer of the tears. Preservative-free formulations are also suitable for frequent use.
  • Screen breaks: every 20 minutes, look into the distance for 20 seconds and blink.
  • Environment: avoid air blowing directly on your face and, in winter, keep some humidity in your home.
  • Eyelid hygiene: especially if your eyelids are red or crusty.

When to see an ophthalmologist

If your symptoms do not improve with artificial tears, if you feel pain, if your vision gets worse or if your eye is very red, see an ophthalmologist: dry eye can be linked to other conditions that need to be assessed and treated.

Dry eye products

Not all artificial tears are the same: if you are unsure which to choose, ask us in store.

Discover dry eye products

Or call us on 0438 83409.