Understanding dry eye syndrome

So what exactly is dry eye syndrome, the symptoms and how can it be treated?

Simply dry eye can be described as when tears don’t function as they are supposed to do. Normally tears keep the surface of the eyes wet and lubricated.

Some of the causes of dry eye include:
Ageing, blepharitis, pollution, computer use, hormonal changes, preservatives, alcohol and some medications.

Symptoms can include:
Pain, blurring of vision, redness, excessive watering, tired eyes, contact lens discomfort, dryness and irritation from wind and smoke.

To combat dry eye, Penzer Opticians recommends Hyabak and Thealoz by Spectrum Thea and stocks both products.

Hyabak is a preservative solution designed to decrease dryness. It can be used by people who are contact lens wearers. It is good for allergies too, such as hayfever. Hyabak hydrates and lubricates the ocular surface.

Thealoz is a preservative free aqueous solution. Its main ingredient is trehalose, which is a natural substance found in many plants and animals. Thealoz hydrates and protects the ocular surface.