What causes dry eye syndrome?

There are a number of things that can cause dry / wet eye syndrome or make it worse. Common causes include being in a hot or windy climate, wearing contact lenses, certain underlying medical conditions, the side effects of certain medications and hormonal changes in women.

We offer various treatments for dry / wet eye syndrome, including:

  • Artificial tear products
  • Demodex
  • BlephEX, to treat Blepharitis
Blepharitis

Blepharitis is inflammation of the lid margins that is often associated with dry eye syndrome. There are three main types of blepharitis and each may need to be treated and managed in a different way.

Common symptoms of the condition include:

  • Dry eyes
  • Tearing
  • Crusting
  • Itchy eyes
  • Redness and inflammation
  • Feeling that you have something in your eye

We can diagnose if you have blepharitis, and, if so, which type you have. We can then advise you on the best way to treat a flare-up and manage the condition in the long term.

BlephEx

BlephEx is a quick and painless procedure to treat blepharitis that we can perform in our clinic. We use it to remove scurf and bacterial debris from around the eyelids, which are the main causes of inflammatory lid disease and blepharitis.

BlephEx will ease these chronic and debilitating conditions. By eliminating the cause of the inflammation, the overall health of the eyelid is improved. Patients then begin to produce more of their own tears and so experience less of the symptoms associated with blepharitis and dry eye disease. Typically, we repeat the treatment every three to six months, depending on the severity of your disease.

BlephEx can also be used as a one-off treatment prior to eye surgery, for example to remove a cataract. Because it cleans the eyelids of debris which can harbour bacteria, it can help reduce the risk of infection following surgery.

How BlephEx Works

Your optometrist will lightly spin a medical-grade disposable micro-sponge soaked in a specialist antibacterial liquid along the edge of your eyelids and lashes. BlephEx’s gentle exfoliating action removes scurf and debris.

The procedure takes around 10 minutes and is well tolerated. Most patients simply report a tickling sensation. After the treatment is complete, we’ll provide you with a bottle of cleanser and explain what you need to do to keep your eyelids clean.

For more information please book an appointment or give us a call on 0118 981 0267.

“Excellent opticians. The staff at Optimum are first class. Very friendly and extremely thorough. I felt as if I was being well looked after. Would recommend them to anyone.” R Nash

If you notice any changes in your vision or you’re concerned about your sight or the health of your eyes for any reason, please pop in or give us a call. We’ll be happy to help you.

DEDICATED TO GIVING YOU THE BEST SERVICE, CHOICE & CARE. BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

Get In Touch

Follow Us