Do your eyes often feel sore, gritty, or tired after using your phone or computer? You’re not alone. These signs are a common condition that affects everyday comfort and visual clarity. While many people dismiss it as a temporary irritation, persistent symptoms may indicate a medical condition known as dry eye disease. Understanding what it is and how to address it may help you protect your long-term eye health.
What Is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes do not produce enough high-quality tears to keep the surface of the eye lubricated. Tears do more than you might think – they protect your eyes, support clear vision, and help prevent infection. When tear production is low or unstable, you may experience persistent discomfort or even damage to the surface of your eye.
So, what is dry eye? It’s more than just dryness – it’s a disruption of your eye’s natural balance.
Common Dry Eye Symptoms
Dry eyes don’t always feel dry. Some symptoms might surprise you. You might notice:
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Redness or excessively watery eyes
- A heavy, fatigued sensation in your eyes
- Blurred vision that improves when you blink
- Increased sensitivity to light
If these dry eye symptoms are part of your everyday routine, they may be affecting your concentration, mood, or productivity more than you realise.
Why Do Dry Eyes Happen?
The causes behind dry eyes vary widely. Some are environmental, such as air conditioning or extended screen time. Others are biological, including age-related changes or hormonal fluctuations.
Additional dry eyes causes include:
- Autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome
- Use of certain medicines (such as antihistamines or antidepressants)
- Long-term contact lens wear
- Previous eye surgery, such as LASIK
- Reduced blinking from prolonged focus on digital devices
Identifying the cause of your symptoms is the first step towards meaningful relief.
How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?
Obtaining an accurate diagnosis involves more than a standard eye examination. An eye specialist will assess your tear volume, quality, and how effectively your eyes retain moisture. Tests used during dry eye diagnosis may include:
- Tear break-up time
- Schirmer’s test
- Ocular surface staining
- Meibomian gland imaging
A proper diagnosis ensures that your treatment plan targets the underlying cause of your discomfort, not merely the symptoms.
Eye Dryness Treatment Options
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to eye dryness treatment. Management depends on the severity and underlying cause of the dryness. Mild cases may respond well to preservative-free artificial tears and environmental adjustments, such as using a humidifier or taking regular breaks from screen use.
For persistent or chronic cases, more advanced interventions may be required, including:
- Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops
- Punctal plugs to reduce tear drainage
- Thermal pulsation treatments to improve meibomian gland function
- Lifestyle modifications, including increased hydration and dietary adjustments
It is important to understand that untreated dry eye disease can cause damage to the eye’s surface, increase the risk of infection, and, in severe cases, result in scarring. That’s why timely intervention matters.
Expert Help for Dry Eyes: Why Dr. Trad Alkadi Stands Out?
Dr Trad is a highly qualified medical professional with several key strengths, including:
Advanced Diagnostic Precision
Dr Trad Alkadi utilises cutting-edge diagnostic tools to detect not only the presence of dry eye disease but also its precise cause — whether it is tear deficiency, meibomian gland dysfunction, or a related condition.
Personalized Treatment Plans
No two eyes are alike. Dr Alkadi designs a tailored treatment strategy based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and ocular health history. His focus is on lasting relief rather than short-term solutions.
Expertise in Corneal and Tear Film Health
With a specialism in corneal and ocular surface conditions, Dr Alkadi provides more than general eye care; he delivers focused expertise where it is needed most.
Comfort and Confidence from the First Visit
Patients frequently report noticeable improvement after just one tailored treatment cycle. From your initial consultation, you will gain a clear understanding of what is causing your discomfort — and how to address it.
Take the First Step Toward Clearer, More Comfortable Vision
If you are struggling with daily eye irritation, do not wait for the symptoms to worsen. Book a consultation with Dr Trad Alkadi today and discover a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.
