Dry eyes

Dry eyes can occur when the eye when the eye doesn’t produce enough tears of good quality to lubricate and protect the eye. Tears keep the eye moist, removes debris and protects the eye against infections.

Common causes

Decreased lacrimation: Can be caused by age, medications, illnesses or damage to the tear glands.

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD): Glands in the eyelid aren’t functioning properly and tears evaporate too quickly. Causes include:

• Blocked glands, when the oil they produce becomes too thick
• Inflammation in glands or tissue

Symptoms

• Dryness, itching or burning sensation
• Pins and needles, feeling like there’s sand in the eye
• Red eyes and light sensitivity
• Blurred vision, eye fatigue and eye discharge
• Decrease in visual acuity

Treatment

• Artificial tears: Eye drops or salve that lubricates the eye.
• Treating underlying causes: Medications or illnesses that affect lacrimation.
• Eyelid hygiene: Cleaning the eyelids to prevent blockage.
• Humid environments: Humidifier and avoiding smoky or dusty environments.
• Prescription medicine: Anti-inflammatory or antibiotic eyedrops as needed.

Treating MGD

• Hot compresses: Softens oils and clears blockage of the glands.
• Massage: Stimulates lacrimation and clears blockages.
• Lipid based tear substitutes: Complements lack of oil in the tear film.
• Eyelid hygiene and prescription eyedrops: Prevents inflammation and infection.

We are an authorised centre by Region Skane.