Dry Eye
A common cause for concern for many of our patients is a persistent feeling of irritation, burning, or grittiness, often described as the sensation of having something stuck in the eye. What most people do not realise is that these diverse symptoms are frequently the hallmark signs of dry eye. Whether you are experiencing occasional discomfort or chronic irritation, understanding the underlying cause is the first step toward lasting relief.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a complex condition that occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision.
Dry eye is typically categorised into two primary types:
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Aqueous Deficient: This occurs when the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough of the watery component of tears to keep the eye surface moist.
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Evaporative: This is the most common form, where tears dry out too quickly. This is often linked to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), where the protective oily layer of the tear film is missing or insufficient.
The modern clinical consensus is that dry eye is usually a combination of these factors, exacerbated by environmental triggers such as air conditioning, heating, windy weather, or prolonged digital screen use. When we stare at screens, our blink rate significantly decreases, which prevents the eye from refreshing its natural moisture. If left unmanaged, chronic dry eye can be debilitating, impacting not only your daily comfort but also the overall quality and stability of your vision.
Dry Eye Treatments at Acuity Eyecare
The primary aim of dry eye treatment is to offer symptomatic relief while simultaneously improving tear film stability. Because there is rarely a "quick fix," the team at Acuity Eyecare provides a tailored range of services and products designed to address the root cause of your discomfort
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
IPL is a breakthrough treatment that has gained significant interest for its ability to provide long-lasting relief for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)-related dry eye. This safe and comfortable procedure involves stimulating the area around the eyelids with carefully controlled light pulses.
The goal is to restore the function of the meibomian glands, improving the quality and volume of the oily secretions (meibum) that prevent tear evaporation. Interestingly, the benefits of IPL were discovered accidentally in 2002 when patients treated for facial rosacea reported a significant improvement in their dry eye symptoms. This has since been supported by a well-founded study from the University of Auckland, where 86% of participants noted a reduction in dry eye symptoms following treatment.
During an IPL session at Acuity Eyecare, our optometrist applies a cooling gel and provides protective eyewear. Multiple flashes are directed to the area around the eyelids. When combined with specific supplements and anti-inflammatory drops, IPL reduces inflammation and encourages the glands to function normally again. The treatment usually involves 3-5 sessions with subsequent treatments as required.
Lubricant Eye Drops
Often the first line of defence, lubricant eye drops add bulk to the tear film and provide immediate lubrication. At Acuity Eyecare, we generally recommend non-preserved drops to reduce the risk of irritation from preservatives. While these offer excellent immediate relief, their effects are often short-lived, meaning they may need to be used frequently throughout the day to manage dry eye effectively.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation
Nutritional support is a vital component of our holistic approach. High concentrations of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) found in specific Omega-3 tablets have a dual benefit.
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Firstly, they provide strong anti-inflammatory effects that reduce lid margin inflammation associated with blepharitis.
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Secondly, they improve the quality of the meibum produced by your glands, ensuring the oily layer of your tears remains stable.
Unlike standard over-the-counter fish oils, the professional-grade supplements we recommend at Acuity Eyecare are re-esterified. This process returns the oils to their natural state, allowing them to be more readily absorbed by the body, significantly increasing their efficiency in treating dry eye.
Managing your Eye Health
If you are tired of living with the discomfort of irritated eyes, we encourage you to take the next step. Every case is unique, and a thorough eye exam is the only way to determine which combination of treatments will be most effective for you. Be sure to ask your optometrist about the latest in IPL technology and tailored nutrition at your next eye exam with Acuity Eyecare.