Dry Eye Assessments

DRY EYE is a chronic problem. This means that it will never be completely cured, but we can help you manage the symptoms with a dedicated treatment plan.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry Eye means that your eyes may not be making enough tears, that the tears which are being produced are of poor quality or that tears that are produced evaporate away faster than they should. The normal function of tears is to keep the surface of the eye wet and lubricated so any shortage of tears or reduction in their quality can produce a gritty, burning sensation of the eyes and can also disturb vision.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dryness
Burning, stinging or itching
Gritty feeling
Irritation from wind or smoke
Blurred or smeary vision
Tired eyes
Red eyes
Excessive watering
Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
Contact lens discomfort

Causes of Dry Eye

Ageing
Burning, stinging or itching
Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) similar to dandruff on the eyelashes
Dry environment and pollution/li>
Computer use
Contact Lens wear
Hormonal changes, especially in women e.g. menopause
Dry Eye may also be symptomatic of general health problems or disease e.g. people with arthritis are more prone to Dry Eye (Sjogren’s Syndrome = arthritis + dry eye + dry mouth)
LASIK surgery
Preservatives
Certain types of medication *your optometrist or Doctor can advise you of any known links between medicine and Dry Eye.

How Is Dry Eye Treated?

At Bawtry Eye Academy Opticians we can provide a tailor-made treatment plan to manage the symptoms of Dry Eye. We can offer the very best products for your condition and our Opticians have been highly trained to advise you on the best course of treatment.

In some cases your symptoms can be relieved by making a few simple changes – for example avoidance of dehydrating environments such as air conditioning. If your job involves lots of computer work, take regular breaks to rest your eyes. Protecting the eyes from dehydrating influences such as a cold wind by wearing spectacles or sunglasses may also help.

As Dry Eye is caused by an imbalance of tears on the eye’s surface, the most logical way to treat the problem is to artificially replace the tears and by doing so improve both quantity and quality. There are a variety of artificial tears available and you will be advised the best option for your problem as part of your treatment plan. You may also be given dietary advice and to use various supplements to improve the quality of your tear film.

Bawtry Eye Academy Dry Eye Treatment Plan

This is a 3 Month management program consisting of:

Initial 30 minute consultation with a dry eye specialist Optician, followed by reviews within the 3 month period as necessary

Your own dedicated Ocular Hygienist

The first 2 products to help you begin to manage your condition (worth up to £30)

All this for £180

Treatment may consist of:

Ocular lubricants

Heat treatment

Lid massage

Lid hygiene

Supplements

If you are suffering from either of these conditions or have any of the symptoms described then please speak to one of our qualified staff for any help or advice. For any further information or to book an appointment for a Dry Eye Assessment please call us on 01302 711282