Dry eye occurs when there is decreased tear production in the eye and/or increased tear evaporation.

  Symptoms can include irritation, burning, itchiness and feeling as if a foreign body is present in the eye. Resultant damage to the surface of the eye can also cause sensitivity to light. Watery eyes can also be a symptom as tears form in reaction to the damaged surface of the eye. These reactive tears are not sufficiently thick to lubricate the eye correctly.

  Because blinking coats the eye with lubricating tears, dry eye can also develop when activities that reduce blink rate are performed such as computer work or reading. Most people have minimal irritation from dry eye which can be successfully treated with lubricating artificial tear drops. Dry eye, if left untreated, can lead to severe damage to the eye such as abrasions on the surface of the eye or ulceration.

  If you have been diagnosed with dry eye there are several treatment options depending on severity of your symptoms.

  Dry eye drops or artificial tears (lubricant drops) are the first line of treatment for most dry eye sufferers. There are many options on the market so you will be able to obtain one that suits you. These include gel forming drops that are thicker, and preservative free drops for those with preservative intolerance.

  Other treatments include punctum plugs, very small silicone plugs that are inserted into the tear ducts to block these openings and help retain moisture on the eye.

  Please Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding with such a procedure you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.