What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears don’t work properly to keep your eyes comfortable and protected. This can lead to burning, stinging, blurry vision, gritty sensations, or even excessive watering. It’s more common than most people think and often underdiagnosed. I’ve been managing dry eye patients for over 15 years, and no two cases are exactly the same.
Why are my eyes watering if I have dry eye?
This is one of the most frequent things I’m asked. It sounds strange, but when your eyes are dry and irritated, they can actually produce more tears—but the wrong kind. These are watery, reflex tears that don’t nourish or protect the eye properly. So even though your eyes feel watery, they’re still technically dry. The real solution lies in treating the underlying imbalance in your tear film.
What causes dry eyes?
There are lots of possible causes, from screen use and ageing to hormonal changes, eyelid problems, contact lenses, or side effects of medication. Sometimes, there’s an underlying medical issue like rosacea, autoimmune disease, or thyroid dysfunction. In more complex cases, I may recommend further investigations, such as a blood panel, if I suspect there’s something systemic contributing to the problem. Identifying the root cause is the first step to getting lasting relief.
What happens during a dry eye consultation?
At Edgbaston Eye Clinic in Birmingham, I carry out a full dry eye assessment myself. This includes checking your tear film stability, examining your meibomian (oil) glands, looking for signs of inflammation or surface damage, and assessing your eyelid health. We may also use imaging to look deeper if needed. It’s a thorough, personalised evaluation, not just a quick check. The initial consultation is £120, which includes all the necessary dry eye tests and plenty of time to discuss your symptoms, history, and treatment options.
How do you treat dry eye?
Treatment depends on what’s causing your symptoms. For some patients, tailored lubricating drops are enough. For others, I may recommend anti-inflammatory treatments such as Ikervis or short-term steroid drops, or place tiny punctal plugs to help retain natural tears. If there’s significant lid involvement or signs of meibomian gland dysfunction, I’ll address that too. In certain cases, we may even look at your general health, diet, and lifestyle. The key is that it’s never a one-size-fits-all approach—it’s about understanding your eye surface and finding what works for you.
Is dry eye something I have to live with?
No, not at all. Many people are told there’s nothing more that can be done, but in most cases, that simply isn’t true. If you’ve tried drops from the chemist and still feel miserable, there’s a good chance the issue is more complex than just dryness. With the right diagnosis and a structured plan, I’ve helped many patients get back to living comfortably—even after years of struggling.
Is Don Williams a dry eye specialist?
Yes—I’ve worked with dry eye patients for over 15 years and see everything from mild discomfort to severe, complex cases. As the clinical lead at Edgbaston Eye Clinic, I handle all assessments and treatments personally. You’re not passed between staff or rushed. Patients come to see me from across Birmingham and beyond because they want detailed answers and honest solutions. If you’re looking for a dry eye specialist who takes the time to understand your symptoms, I’d be happy to help.
How do I book a dry eye appointment?
You can contact Edgbaston Eye Clinic directly by phone on 01217263199, email on info@edgbastoneyeclinic.com or through our website. You don’t need a referral, and we offer flexible appointments, including weekends (Saturdays). Whether your eyes feel dry, sore, blurry, or just “not right,” you’re welcome to come in for a proper assessment. There’s no pressure—just straightforward, professional care.