Dry Eye

Dry eye is a common chronic (long-term) condition that may be caused because your eyes do not produce enough tears, or because the tears that you have evaporate too quickly or do not spread evenly across the front of your eye. The symptoms are usually in both eyes. Dry eye does not normally cause permanent problems with your sight, but in severe cases it can become very painful and cause permanent damage to the front of your eye. It usually makes your eye feel scratchy, irritated or uncomfortable.

It is more common in women and in people aged over 65. In women, changes in hormone levels, for instance during menopause, pregnancy or while using the contraceptive pill, can increase the risk of dry eye.

• Avoid using make-up and keep your eyelids clean.
• Be aware of your environment.
• High temperatures, central heating may increase the evaporation of your tears an make your eyes feel drier, as can draughts and air conditioning.
• Use eye lubricants to give you extra moisture