Dry Eyes
Harley Street, London
Dry eye syndrome affects millions of people, causing persistent discomfort that can significantly impact daily activities. Far from being merely an inconvenience, dry eyes represent a complex condition that requires proper understanding and treatment to provide lasting relief and prevent complications.
Miss Shreya Haldar’s expertise in treating dry eyes encompasses both the latest therapeutic approaches and time-tested treatments, ensuring that each patient receives personalised care tailored to their specific type and severity of dry eye condition.
Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome, medically known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This seemingly simple description masks a complex condition that can have multiple contributing factors and varying presentations.
Your tear film consists of three essential layers: an outer lipid layer that prevents evaporation, a middle aqueous layer that provides moisture and nutrients, and an inner mucin layer that helps tears spread evenly across the eye surface. Problems with any of these layers can lead to dry eye symptoms.
The condition can range from mild occasional discomfort to severe symptoms that interfere with work, reading, driving, and other daily activities. Understanding the specific type of dry eye you have is crucial for effective treatment.
Causes of Dry Eyes
Dry eyes can result from numerous factors, often working in combination to create symptoms. Age is a significant factor, as tear production naturally decreases over time, particularly in women after menopause due to hormonal changes.
Environmental factors play a major role, including air conditioning, heating systems, wind, smoke, and low humidity environments. Extended computer use or reading can reduce blink rates, leading to increased tear evaporation.
Medical conditions that contribute to dry eyes include autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. Thyroid disorders, diabetes, and vitamin A deficiency can also affect tear production.
Medications are another common cause, particularly antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and hormone replacement therapy. Contact lens wear, especially for extended periods, can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
Meibomian gland dysfunction, where the oil glands in the eyelids become blocked or don’t function properly, is a leading cause of evaporative dry eye. This condition is often associated with rosacea and other skin conditions affecting the eyelids.
Recognising Dry Eye Symptoms
Dry eye symptoms can be surprisingly varied and don’t always involve the sensation of dryness. Many patients describe a gritty, sandy feeling in their eyes, as though something is stuck under their eyelids. Others experience burning, stinging, or irritation that worsens throughout the day.
Paradoxically, watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eye syndrome. When the eye’s surface becomes irritated due to inadequate lubrication, it can trigger reflex tearing that produces poor-quality tears unable to properly lubricate the eye.
Visual symptoms include blurred vision that clears with blinking, difficulty reading or using computers for extended periods, and increased light sensitivity. Eye fatigue, particularly after visual tasks, is another common complaint.
Physical symptoms may include red, inflamed eyelids, stringy mucus around the eyes, and difficulty wearing contact lenses. Some patients notice symptoms worsen in certain environments or during specific activities.
Treatment Options for Dry Eyes
Treatment for dry eyes typically involves a stepped approach, beginning with conservative measures and progressing to more advanced treatments based on severity and response to initial therapy.
Artificial Tears and Lubricants
The foundation of dry eye treatment involves regular use of artificial tears to supplement natural tear production. Different formulations address specific types of dry eye, with some focusing on tear replacement whilst others help restore the lipid layer.
Lifestyle Modifications
Simple changes can significantly improve symptoms. These include taking regular breaks during computer use, using a humidifier to increase environmental moisture, avoiding direct air flow from fans or air conditioning, and staying well-hydrated.
Eyelid Hygiene
For patients with meibomian gland dysfunction, regular eyelid cleaning and warm compresses help restore normal gland function. This involves gentle massage and cleaning to remove blockages and improve oil flow.
Prescription Medications
When conservative measures aren’t sufficient, prescription treatments may be necessary. These include anti-inflammatory medications to reduce surface inflammation, antibiotics for patients with associated bacterial overgrowth, and tear-stimulating medications.
Advanced Treatments
For severe cases, advanced treatments may be required. These can include procedures to block tear ducts to conserve natural tears, intense pulsed light therapy for meibomian gland dysfunction, or specialty contact lenses designed to protect the eye’s surface.
Long-term Management
Dry eye syndrome is typically a chronic condition requiring ongoing management rather than a one-time cure. The key to successful treatment lies in finding the right combination of therapies that provide sustained relief with minimal side effects.
Regular follow-up appointments allow for treatment adjustments based on symptom changes and response to therapy. Miss Haldar works closely with patients to develop long-term management strategies that fit their lifestyle and provide consistent relief.
Why Choose Miss Shreya Haldar for Dry Eye Treatment?
Miss Haldar’s comprehensive approach to dry eye treatment combines thorough diagnostic evaluation with personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Her expertise as a consultant ophthalmic surgeon ensures access to the full range of treatment options, from basic lubrication to advanced surgical interventions.
Her understanding of the complex factors contributing to dry eyes allows for targeted treatment that addresses underlying causes rather than simply masking symptoms. This approach leads to more effective and lasting relief.
Located on Harley Street in London, Miss Haldar’s practice provides convenient access to specialist dry eye care. Her commitment to patient education ensures that you understand your condition and feel confident in your treatment plan.
The combination of clinical expertise and compassionate care creates an environment where patients feel supported throughout their treatment journey. Miss Haldar’s experience in ophthalmology and eye care extends beyond dry eyes to encompass comprehensive eye health, ensuring that any related conditions are identified and addressed.
Don’t let dry eyes diminish your quality of life. Miss Shreya Haldar’s expert approach to dry eye treatment provides the relief you need to get back to enjoying life’s visual pleasures.
Contact our practice today to arrange your consultation and discover how modern dry eye treatment can restore comfort and clarity to your vision. Your eyes deserve the specialised care that only an experienced ophthalmologist can provide.