Dry Eye And Me
Dry Eye Syndrome
Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition which affects one in four people in the UK. It’s not usually serious and can be treated with eye gel or drops.
What causes dry eye syndrome?
One of the main causes of dry eye syndrome is a lack of sufficient lubricating tears – meaning the surface of the eye becomes dry and irritated.
Tears can be inadequate or unstable for many reasons which can lead to tear instability which can cause inflammation and damage to the surface of the eye.
As we age, we’re more prone to developing dry eye symptoms, but this can also be due to environmental factors such as spending prolonged time in heating and air-conditioned rooms, or spending time in windy and dusty environments. Our lifestyle can also have an impact on our eyes, such as prolonged screen use, wearing contact lenses, smoking or drinking alcohol, or taking certain medications.
Factors associated with dry eye syndrome
You may be more likely to get dry eyes (dry eye syndrome) if:
- You are over the age of 50
- You are going through menopause
- You have an underlying health condition such as blepharitis or lupus
- You take a certain medication such as blood pressure drugs
- You smoke or drink alcohol
- You wear contact lenses
- You look at computer screens for a long period of time
- You are a frequent flyer
Is Dry Eye Serious?
If treated early enough, dry eye syndrome is not serious or something to worry about. However, if untreated, significant drying of the surface of the eye can lead to more serious infections, which could lead to permanent damage of the eye and sight.
How do I prevent dry eye syndrome?
To prevent dry eye syndrome, you should ensure you always stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water and reducing your alcohol consumption.
Other ways to prevent dry eyes are:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Include vitamin A and C in your diet
- Avoid wearing contact lenses when you don’t need to
- Avoid overexposure to heat or dry air
- Wear sunglasses outside when appropriate
What are the common symptoms of dye eye?
You may have dry eye syndrome if your eyes are:
- Itchy
- Aching
- Heavy
- Sore
- Gritty
- Red
- Blurry
- Fatigued
- Sensitive to light
- More watery than usual
Treat your dry eye
VisuXL Gel is a preservative free ophthalmic gel with lubricating and antioxidant components: Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin E TPGS and cross-linked sodium carboxymethylcellulose.
VisuXL Gel can be used to treat dry eye symptoms both throughout the day and night, containing cross-linked sodium carboxymethylcellulose a safe and inert, effective and long lasting lubricant.
Its cross-linking and lack of specific enzymes to degrade the molecule on the surface of the eye, stabilises the carboxymethylcellulose meaning it stays on the eye for longer. Furthermore, the cross-linked sodium carboxymethylcellulose is a hydrogel which has characteristics that mimic natural tears.
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