Dry Eye Clinic

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition affecting many people in the later decades of life. Most cases have no apparent cause but some are related to various inflammatory conditions, vitamin deficiency, surgical treatment or as a side effect of certain drugs. Complaints include irritation of the eyes, gritty sensation and sometimes blurred vision.

Dry eye symptoms are common in 15% of adults

The aim of treatment is to restore the normal tear film as far as possible. Most dry eyes can be managed in primary care.

Soften meibomian oils: Hot compresses (40-45oC) on the eyelids reduce blockage of meibomian ducts by liquefying meibum.

Improve blink rate and extent: use of video display units (VDU) is associated with both reduced blink frequency and tear film instability. Conscious complete blinking may alleviate dry eye symptoms by spreading tears more effectively and encouraging lipid secretion.

Diet: there is evidence to support the use of omega-3 dietary supplementation to improve symptoms and signs of dry eye by improving meibomian gland function.

Therapeutic management: Edgbaston Eye Clinic is one of the very few eye specialist clinics that can prescribe Ikervis for severe chronic dry eye disease. Ikervis is available on prescription only. Other specialist eye drops are also available at Edgbaston Eye Clinic. All these prescription only eye drops require a full specialist eye consultation before they can be prescribed.

Punctal plugs: sometimes inserted by eye care clinicians into drainage punctae to preserve tear volume

Please take note: We don’t give advice over the phone or e-mail for these drugs