Dry eye disease
A chronic disorder of the ocular surface that can cause burning, stinging and discomfort - proper diagnosis and tailored treatment can restore visual comfort and daily function.
What is dry eye disease?
Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a chronic tear film disorder - tears evaporate too quickly (usually due to the meibomian gland dysfunction) or not enough of them are produced. This causes inflammation and irritation of the ocular surface, resulting in burning, a gritty sensation and fluctuations in focus, particularly when working at a screen. The diagnosis is based on an assessment of the stability and composition of the tear film, and treatment combines daily care with in-clinic therapies tailored to the cause.
How do you recognise dry eye disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when the tear film is unstable. It is most commonly caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and excessive tear evaporation; less commonly by insufficient tear production — due to age, hormonal changes such as menopause, or conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome.
Symptoms are exacerbated by computer screens and air conditioning, contact lenses, allergies, blepharitis, demodex mites, and certain medications (e.g. isotretinoin, antihistamines); it can also be temporary following eye surgery. It is crucial to identify the type of dryness (evaporation vs. deficiency), as effective, targeted treatment depends on this.
Symptoms:
- burning, stinging and a gritty sensation
- watery eyes in the wind, photophobia, blurred vision
- redness, heavy eyelids, need to blink frequently
- poorer vision at the end of the day, discomfort when working at a screen
- discomfort in contact lenses, difficulties with eye make-up
Diagnostic examination:
- Medical history and slit-lamp examination - staining, eyelid margins, tear film assessment.
- Functional tests - NIBUT/BUT (tear stability) and Schirmer (tear production).
- Imaging - OSA tear film analysis; meibography/topography if necessary.
- Appointment summary - discussion of the result and a clear, individualised treatment plan.
Dry eye disease treatment
Dry eye disease treatment is effective, but usually requires a long-term commitment — we focus on comfort and quality of vision, not a one-off cure. We aim to address the underlying cause. Some treatments are used only short-term and under medical supervision to avoid side effects.
01
Immediate relief and daily habits
- Preservative-free drops / night gel matched to the type of tear film.
- Eyelid margin hygiene: warm compresses, cleansing, gentle massage.
- Screen ergonomics: 20-20-20 rule, blink more often, humidify the air.
- Contact lens fitting: take a break or switch mode/lens type
02
Treating the underlying cause
- MGD: in-clinic thermotherapy and meibomian gland expression + continuing hygiene at home.
- Inflammation / allergy / Demodex: anti-inflammatory drops, an antibiotic or antiallergic medication as prescribed
- Demodex: eyelid treatment with dedicated preparations.
- Tear deficiency / rapid outflow: consideration punctal plugs (temporary or permanent).
03
Maintenance and advanced therapies
- Immunomodulating drops (e.g. cyclosporine) in chronic inflammation of the ocular surface.
- Omega-3 supplementation, sleep hygiene, management of co-existing conditions (e.g. thyroid, allergies).
- Individual follow-up and treatment review after 4-6 weeks.
Price list
General eye examination + OSA ICP + medical consultation
meibography, comprehensive tear film assessment, TBUT
Non-Invasive Break-Up Time test
Plug included in the price
Plug included in the price
Plug included in the price
Plug included in the price
FAQ
Everything you need to know about dry eye disease
How should I prepare for a dry eye assessment?
Bring a list of your current medications and eye drops, a brief description of your symptoms (when they occur and under what conditions) and your most recent glasses prescription. Do not wear contact lenses for 24 hours before your appointment.
Does blepharitis contribute to dry eye disease?
Yes, blepharitis can contribute to dry eye disease. Inflammation disrupts the function of the meibomian glands, which produce the lipid layer of the tear film. When this layer is deficient, tears evaporate more quickly, leading to dry eye. Chronic inflammation can also damage the ocular surface, worsening symptoms such as burning, a gritty sensation and redness.
Can eye make-up worsen dry eye disease?
It can, if cosmetics reach the eyelid margins. We can show you how to care for your eyelid hygiene and which products to avoid.
When will I notice an improvement?
With a well-chosen treatment plan, most patients feel relief within 2–6 weeks. In-clinic treatments tend to work faster, but the results need to be maintained with a consistent home routine.
For dry eye disease, are over-the-counter drops enough?
They often only provide temporary relief. It is important to identify the type of dry eye (evaporative vs. aqueous-deficient) and treat the underlying cause. During your examination, we select the most appropriate drops for your individual needs.
Can dry eye disease be cured permanently?
It is a chronic condition. The aim is to manage symptoms and address the underlying cause — for example, meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) — so that your eyes feel comfortable on a daily basis. Consistency is key to maintaining the results.
CONTACT
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