What Is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry Eye Disease is a common condition affecting the surface of the eye. It occurs when the tears are unable to adequately lubricate and protect the eyes, leading to symptoms such as burning, stinging, irritation, a gritty or sandy sensation, and fluctuating or blurry vision.
Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the number of people experiencing dry eye symptoms. Factors such as increased screen use, air conditioning, environmental conditions, ageing, hormonal changes, and certain health conditions all contribute to this rise.
In the past, dry eye was thought to be caused mainly by reduced tear production, and treatment focused largely on lubricating eye drops. While eye drops can provide temporary relief, many patients find their symptoms quickly return. This is because drops drain away in the same way as natural tears and do not address the underlying cause of the problem.
We now understand that Dry Eye Disease is a complex, multifactorial condition. It may be caused by tear film instability, inflammation of the ocular surface, eyelid and meibomian gland dysfunction, or changes to the nerves at the front of the eye. As a result, effective management requires more than just eye drops.
At Junic Eyecare, we take a comprehensive approach to dry eye care, focusing on identifying the underlying cause and providing personalised treatment plans for long-term relief.
Root Causes of Dry Eye
- Not producing enough tears
- Tears evaporating too quickly due to blocked oil glands
- Inflammation of the eyes or eyelids
- Wearing contact lenses for long periods
- Eye allergies or infections
- Certain medications
- Previous laser eye surgery
- Autoimmune conditions
- Hormonal changes and ageing
- Long hours on screens with reduced blinking
Dry Eye Symptoms May Include:
- Watery or constantly tearing eyes
- Gritty, burning or stinging sensation
- Red or bloodshot eyes
- Red, irritated or swollen eyelids
- Flakes or crusting around the eyelashes
- Thinning or loss of eyelashes
- Frequent eye rubbing
- Sensitivity to light
- Discomfort or intolerance with contact lenses
- Eye discomfort or pain on waking
- Foamy or soapy residue along the eyelid margins
- Excessive blinking
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
- Recurrent styes or eyelid infections
At the Junic Eyecare Coombs we perform a series of assessments to try to identify the root causes of your dry eye and choose an effective treatment.
What is Dry eye?
Dry Eye Disease is a common condition affecting the surface of the eye.
What to Expect Assessments
Using advanced diagnostic equipment, a Comprehensive Dry Eye Evaluation
What to Expect Treatment
Once we have identified the type and underlying cause of your dry eye, we will develop