Dry Eye Clinic
Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of dry eye syndrome, blepharitis, and meibomian gland dysfunction—essential for ocular comfort and optimal surgical outcomes.
Dry Eye Syndrome
A common condition where the eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort, irritation, and blurred vision.
Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome affects millions of people and occurs when your tears don't provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. This can happen either because you don't produce enough tears (aqueous deficiency) or because your tears evaporate too quickly (evaporative dry eye).
The tear film is remarkably complex, comprising three layers: an outer oily (lipid) layer that prevents evaporation, a middle watery (aqueous) layer that nourishes and protects, and an inner mucous layer that helps tears spread evenly across the cornea.
When any component of this system is disrupted, dry eye symptoms develop. The condition ranges from mild inconvenience to severe discomfort that significantly impacts daily life and can even cause damage to the corneal surface.
Importantly, dry eye disease affects the accuracy of measurements taken before cataract or refractive surgery. An unstable tear film leads to unreliable readings, which can result in suboptimal surgical outcomes. This is why Ms. Menassa insists on ocular surface optimisation before any surgery.
Signs You May Notice
If you're experiencing any of these signs, a consultation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
- Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation
Often described as gritty or sandy feeling
- Paradoxical watering of the eyes
Reflex tears don't have the right composition to lubricate
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
Especially noticeable in the morning
- Light sensitivity
Bright lights cause discomfort
- Eye redness and fatigue
Eyes feel tired and look irritated
- Blurred vision that fluctuates
Often improves briefly after blinking
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Lenses become uncomfortable earlier in the day
Causes
- Age-related decrease in tear production
- Meibomian gland dysfunction affecting the oily tear layer
- Inflammatory conditions like blepharitis
- Environmental factors: air conditioning, heating, wind
- Prolonged screen use reducing blink rate
- Certain medications including antihistamines and antidepressants
- Autoimmune conditions like Sjögren's syndrome
Risk Factors
- Age over 50
- Female sex, particularly after menopause
- Contact lens wear
- Prolonged computer or screen use
- Air-conditioned or heated environments
- Certain medications
- Autoimmune conditions
When to Seek Help
Consider booking a consultation if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent eye discomfort despite over-the-counter drops
- Symptoms are affecting your work or quality of life
- You are struggling to wear contact lenses
- You are considering cataract or refractive surgery
- You have redness, pain, or vision changes
Frequently Asked Questions
This is very common and confusing for patients! When your eyes are dry and irritated, they trigger a reflex that floods the eye with watery tears. However, these tears lack the oils needed to stay on the eye surface, so they simply run down your face without helping the dryness.
Dry eye is typically a chronic condition that requires ongoing management rather than a one-time cure. However, with proper treatment, most people achieve good control of their symptoms and can live comfortably.
For mild dry eye, preservative-free over-the-counter lubricants may be sufficient. More severe or inflammatory dry eye may benefit from prescription anti-inflammatory drops. Ms. Menassa will assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
How We Can Help
Ms. Menassa offers the following treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome:
Concerned About Your Eyes?
Ms. Menassa provides thorough, unhurried consultations to assess your condition and discuss the best treatment options for your situation.
Specialist Expertise
As a fellowship-trained Cornea and Anterior Segment specialist, Ms. Menassa has particular expertise in conditions affecting the front of the eye. Her training in Heidelberg and Lucerne ensures you receive care informed by the latest international advances.
Available Treatments
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Take the First Step
Understanding your condition is the first step toward clear vision. Ms. Menassa is here to provide expert guidance, honest advice, and compassionate care.