Dry Eyes

As the weather has gotten colder in the last few weeks, I’m sure dear readers that you have been Keeping doors and windows closed, some may have invested in better insulation, and all would have turned up the heating. All correct things to do of course but something you didn’t know is that it may be exasperating your Dry eye condition.

Dry eye conditions cause your eyes to sting, burn, itch and scratch. They can also be red and feel gritty. Your tear glands may be clogged or producing insufficient tears and oils to retain moisture. There are several reasons why we can suffer from this condition. We’ll go through them one at a time.

Nocturnal Lagophthalmos
Nocturnal lagophthalmos is a long way of saying sleeping with your eyes open ! Or more accurately not closing your eyelids completely during sleep. Since the surface of your eye is exposed at night, it becomes dry. Left untreated, this condition can damage your cornea.

Blepharitis
Blepharitis is inflamed eye lids caused by bacterial overgrowth. These bacteria are active at night, causing dry eye-related symptoms of redness, soreness and irritation upon waking.

Environment
A gritty sensation in your eyes can also be caused by the environment such as the heating we discussed earlier. But it can also be sensitivity to allergens. These can cause your eyes to become dry and irritated.

Medications
Some types of over-the-counter and prescription medication can dehydrate the eyes. These include:

• Antihistamines and decongestants
• Antipsychotic medications
• Antidepressants
• Hypertension drugs
• Hormones
• Drugs for gastrointestinal problems
• Pain relievers
• Skin medications
• Chemotherapy medications

Age
Many people develop dry eye symptoms with age. Unfortunately, tear production tends to decrease and becomes less efficient as we grow older.

How to Treat Dry Eye
If the condition is worse in the morning ensure that you sleep in a moisture-rich environment, consider using a humidifier. In severe cases of nocturnal lagophthalmos, eyelid surgery may be necessary.

In most cases we use specific eye drops / gels / ointments to help lubricant the eyes. There are a variety on the Market to choose from. Ask your pharmacists or Optician to advise you on which is best for you. Pharmacies in Wales are now able to treat Dry Eyes under the Common Ailment Scheme. This is an NHS Wales funded Scheme which allows a consultation with your pharmacist. Pharmacists are then able to supply you with the right advice or product without having to see a GP.  Convenient for you and it saves a GP appointment.

Drop in or phone. We’re ready to help.