Dry Eye is a condition where the surface of the eye becomes inflamed and sore due to a poor relationship between the tear
film and the eyelids.
This might be because you don’t have enough tears, or that the chemistry of the tear film is out of balance. The most common cause is chronic inflammation of the eyelids known as Blepharitis.
How common is Dry Eye?
1 in 5 adults suffer with Dry Eye symptoms every day, and many more will have episodes of dry eye when they are in certain environments or doing specific activities, such as using a computer for prolonged periods.
How is Dry Eye managed?
Dry Eye is a chronic condition that needs to be managed regularly, rather than ‘cured.’ Just like a chronic skin condition, such as eczema, you need to manage it daily to avoid flare-ups of symptoms.
Making sure the eyelids are healthy, and using the correct lubricant eye drops (also called artificial tears), is key. Your optometrist or pharmacist can recommend a daily regime for you to follow that will reduce
symptoms and make your eyes comfortable again. It is also important to eat a balanced diet that includes Omega-3 fatty acids (beneficial for the oil-producing Glands in the eyelids), and to make sure you stay hydrated all day.
Source: youreyehealth.co.uk
Next blog: What is Blepharitis?