Dry Eye Disease
What are dry eyes?
Dry Eye Disease or Dry Eye Syndrome, is a term for the breakdown of the tear film that protects the eye’s front surface. Common causes are blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction, however there are many other causes for dry eyes.
What are the symptoms of dry eyes?
Dry Eye Disease is the most common symptomatic eye condition treated at EyeHub. It causes chronic, tired, uncomfortable eyes. The symptoms range from mild to severe and include burning, stinging, itching, and/or sandy, gritty, scratchy foreign body sensations causing excessive tearing and matting or caking of the eyelashes. The eyelids can stick together, particularly on waking and can cause intermittent redness and blurred vision.
The symptoms are worse when reading, watching TV, driving, using computers, and in air-conditioned or windy environments. It leads to light sensitivity, eye pain and headaches, heavy eyelids, frequent blinking, and eye fatigue.
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Tearstim is an effective treatment for Dry Eye Disease
Treatment for Dry Eye Disease
Drops alone can sometimes prove inadequate, and the condition becomes chronic. Modern treatment modalities such as Intense Regulated Pulsed Light (IRPL) therapy offer most patients rapid and complete resolution of their symptoms. Since 2024, we have been proud to offer our own IRPL therapy—our Tearstim!
Our Tearstim is a proven treatment for treating dry eye disease.
Read About Tearstim TreatmentTargeted Dry Eye Disease treatment on the Sunshine Coast
Here at EyeHub, we understand how frustrating dry eyes can be and the challenges faced trying to navigate this. That is why we offer a rigorous assessment to address your dry eyes, within a calm and inviting space.
Lead ophthalmologist, Dr Sonia Moorthy, is passionate about treating Dry Eye Disease, having suffered it personally. Alongside her dedicated team, offering a tailored Dry Eye Disease treatment regime is the utmost priority.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to your questions about Dry Eye Disease treatment
What is Dry Eye Disease, and what causes it?
Dry Eye Disease occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort and vision problems. Causes include aging, certain medications, environmental factors, and underlying health conditions.
What are the common symptoms of Dry Eye Disease?
Symptoms include redness, irritation, burning, stinging, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and a sensation of something gritty in the eyes.
Who is at risk of developing Dry Eye Disease?
Risk factors include aging, being female (especially post-menopause), wearing contact lenses, prolonged screen use, and having conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases.
Can Dry Eye Disease lead to permanent damage?
In severe cases, if left untreated, Dry Eye can cause inflammation, damage to the cornea, and vision impairment.
How is Dry Eye Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye exam, tear production tests (like the Schirmer test), and assessments of tear quality and stability using specialised equipment.
What are the treatment options for Dry Eye Disease?
Treatments range from a combination of artificial tears and prescription eye drops to lifestyle changes, warm compresses, IRPL (see below), punctal plugs, or medications that improve tear production.
Can lifestyle changes help manage Dry Eye Disease?
Yes! Strategies like staying hydrated, using a humidifier, taking breaks during screen time, and wearing protective eyewear in windy or dry conditions can help.
Are there natural remedies or supplements for Dry Eye Disease?
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements and foods rich in these nutrients (like fish or flaxseed) may improve symptoms. Warm compresses and lid hygiene using tea tree foaming cleanser can also provide relief.
Can Dry Eye Disease be cured?
While there is no permanent cure for most cases, effective management strategies can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
When should I see an eye doctor about dry eye symptoms?
Consult with Eye Hub if symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily activities, as this could indicate a more serious issue or require tailored treatment.
