Dry eyes are a common eye complaint
The gift of sight is so importance to us, yet taking better care of our eyes isn’t often top of our priority list.
Research has shown 20 Million Brits risk avoidable sight loss because they fail to have regular sight tests and one in ten British adults have never had an eye examination at all.
Yet some of the most common eye complaints can not only cause uncomfortable symptoms but could actually lead to permanent damage to your eye sight.
Scott Mackie, Consultant Optometrist and founder of Mackie Opticians explains: “Many people think eye tests are just about checking for problems with sight, but when you visit your optician they will also look at the general health of your eyes.
“Many of the most common eye complaints can be easily diagnosed and treated from home but if left untreated these conditions can lead to permanent damage to the eyes. It is essential people can identify these symptoms and seek the right help and advice before the problem gets worse and the damage more permanent.”
Dry Eye is a common condition. It can be caused by a range of everyday factors including ageing, wearing contact lenses, pollution, wind, hormonal changes in women, air conditioning, dry environments, certain medications including oral contraceptives and regular use of computers. If left untreated, Dry Eye can lead to problems with vision and in extreme cases can lead to permanent scarring of the front of the eyes.
Dry Eye is the result of a problem with the normal tear film, the function that keeps the surface of the eye wet. This can occur because the eyes may not be making enough tears, the quality of the tears may be poor or the tears may be evaporating too quickly. When the eyes are not lubricated they cannot function effectively resulting in symptoms that can include itching and redness, foreign body sensation, burning and stinging, dryness, excessive watering and contact lens discomfort.
Scott continues
“Dry eye syndrome is caused by an imbalance of tears on the eye’s surface so the most logical way to treat the problem is to artificially replace the tears. Specially formulated eye drops can be applied throughout the day to act as artificial tears. There are various options available and you should visit your local optician to talk about the best option for you. I would always recommend a preservative free option like Hyabak or Thealoz.”
Hyabak eye drops are as natural as tears and suitable for regular use. These intelligent drops act as a sponge, retaining water and releasing it progressively, flowing when you blink and retaining a clear surface when the eye is still. They are suitable for regular use by contact lens wearers and to relieve chronic dry eye symptoms, (RRP £10.50, 300 doses)
Thealoz natural defence eye drops is a new concept in Dry Eye management. The natural ingredients, known to improve cell water management provide protective, antioxidant and hydration properties to enable protection of the cell membranes. They can be used regularly to provide immediate comfort for contact lens wearers during the day and to relieve chronic symptoms. (RRP £13.99, 300 doses)
Both Thealoz and Hyabak drops are sterile and preservative free so have none of the side effects associated with medicated eye drops.
Available from all good high street Opticians. For more information visit spectrumthea.co.uk or talk to your local Optometrist.
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