FAQs on Dry Eye
What causes dry eye?
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when tears evaporate too quickly. Common causes include prolonged screen use, air conditioning, contact lens wear, hormonal changes (particularly in women over 40), certain medications, and environmental conditions. In Australia’s sunny, outdoor lifestyle, UV exposure and wind can also be contributing factors.
What are the symptoms of dry eye disease?
Symptoms include a gritty or burning sensation, redness, intermittent blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and paradoxically – excessive watering. The eyes produce reflex tears when irritated, which is why a constantly watering eye can actually be a sign of dry eye disease rather than excess tear production.
Is dry eye a serious condition?
Dry eye is chronic and progressive if left untreated, and can significantly affect quality of life. In more severe cases it can cause damage to the corneal surface. However, with the right treatment plan it is very manageable. The key is accurate diagnosis – not all dry eye is the same, and treatment should target the specific cause.
What treatments are available for dry eye?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of dry eye. Options range from lubricating eye drops and heat therapy (for meibomian gland dysfunction) to prescription drops, dietary changes (omega-3 supplementation), environmental adjustments, and in-practice treatments such as Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) and IPL. At Beckenham Optometrist we offer thorough dry eye assessments to develop a personalised management plan.
Can screen use cause dry eye?
Yes. When we focus on screens we blink significantly less than normal – up to 50% less – which allows tears to evaporate and the ocular surface to dry out. The 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for and blink 20 times) helps, as does managing your environment.
