Dry eye & Eyelid Clinic
Dry eye & Eyelid Clinic
Suffering from uncomfortable or irritated eyes?
Many people are unaware that dry eye is a chronic condition and requires ongoing treatment and care. We are here to help.
Dry eye/watery eye clinic
What is dry eye?
We can now offer our services to investigate dry eye and watery eye problems. Millions of people suffer from persistent irritation in the eyes either from allergy, excess watering, or too little water (dryness). Common symptoms include: redness, burning, itching, fluctuations in vision, a feeling of grit or sand in the eye, contact lens discomfort, light sensitivity, watery eyes, and tired eyes.
At Scotts Opticians, patients can book a tear film assessment with our specialist optometrist. The assessment takes about an hour, and a full and comprehensive examination of the eyes using photography and the IDRA device will provide evidence for a structured plan. Each diagnosis is unique to the individual and the treatment plan is
tailor-made for you.
Treatment may include the use of eye drops and warm compresses applied to the closed eyelids, cleaning products for the eyelids, insertion of dissolvable or permanent plugs into the tear ducts, or syringing of the tear ducts. We can also offer an in-house treatment from the ACTIVA device. The optometrist will give a detailed report of your eye condition and discuss your treatment plan and follow-ups.
Our Process
How is Dry Eye Diagnosed?
Dry Eyes can be diagnosed through a complete eye examination.
Testing, with emphasis on the evaluation of the quantity and quality of tears produced by the ocular glands, will include: Patient history to determine the symptoms and to note any general health problems, medications or environmental factors that may be contributing to the dry eye problem. External examination of the eye, including lid structure and blink dynamics. Evaluation of the eyelids and cornea using bright light and magnification. Measurement of the quantity and quality of tears for any abnormalities. Special dyes may be put in the eyes to better observe tear flow and to highlight any changes to the outer surface of the eye caused by insufficient tears.
Eyelid Health
Treating dry eye
If you’ve been diagnosed with dry eye or are experiencing symptoms, you’ll be glad to know there are several ways to manage this uncomfortable condition and restore comfort.
Gently cleanse your eyelids to remove bacteria that can contribute to dry eye symptoms. We also recommend you avoid applying eyeliner to the rim of your eyelids, as this can block the glands responsible for producing the oily, lubricating layer of your tears.
Central heating, draughts, and air conditioning can accelerate tear evaporation, making your eyes feel even drier. Try lowering your heating, redirecting car air vents away from your face, and consider using a humidifier to slow down evaporation.
tips for treating dry eye
Use an eye bag
Heat pads, such as eye bags, help unblock the glands in your eyelids and encourage the production of the oily layer in your tears. Ask your optician for more details.
Regular eye exams
Regular check-ups can help you manage your condition and monitor for related issues like blepharitis.
Punctum plugs
Tears naturally drain into your nose through small channels in your eyelids. Small punctum plugs can be inserted into these drainage points in the lower eyelids to retain more tears.
Take screen breaks
While looking at screens doesn’t directly harm your eyes, it can cause you to blink less, worsening dry eye. Take regular breaks by looking away from the screen for a few seconds to give your eyes a rest.
Use eye Lubricants
Available in drops, gels, ointments, or sprays, ocular lubricants can be bought over the counter. The best options are preservative-free or contain mild preservatives to minimise irritation.
To find out more ask your Optometrist or one of our other team members.
Gel
If drops leave your eyes too quickly, opt for a gel, which is thicker and stays in the eye longer.
Ointment
Ointments are ideal for use at night, especially if your eyes dry out because you don’t fully close your eyelids when you sleep. Since ointments can blur vision, they’re best applied before bed.
Sprays
Sprays are excellent for replenishing the oily layer of your tears. Simply spray onto your closed eyelids and allow the solution to spread across your eyes when you open them.
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Bury St. Edmunds
