What Are Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears, or when tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping the eyes comfortable, protecting the surface of the eye, and maintaining clear vision.
Dry eyes are common, particularly with increasing age, prolonged screen use, contact lens wear, and certain medical conditions. Symptoms can range from mild irritation to significant discomfort affecting daily activities.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
Common causes include:
- Reduced tear production with age
- Prolonged screen use or reduced blinking
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (poor tear quality)
- Contact lens use
- Air conditioning, heating, wind, or smoke
- Certain medications (e.g. antihistamines, antidepressants)
- Medical conditions such as blepharitis, rosacea, or autoimmune disease
What Are the Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes?
You may notice:
- Gritty, sandy, or burning sensation
- Red or tired-looking eyes
- Intermittent blurred vision that improves with blinking
- Sensitivity to light
- Excessive watering (reflex tearing)
- Discomfort with contact lenses
How Are Dry Eyes Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on:
- Symptom history and triggers
- Visual inspection of the eyes and eyelids
- Assessment of tear quality and eyelid function
Online GP consultations can advise on initial management. In-person assessment may be needed for persistent or severe symptoms.
How Long Do Dry Eyes Last?
Dry eye is often a long-term condition:
- Symptoms may fluctuate day to day
- Regular treatment can significantly improve comfort
- Ongoing management is usually required rather than a one-off treatment
Are Dry Eyes Contagious?
No. Dry eyes are not contagious and cannot be passed to others.
How to Feel Better and Recover Quickly
Self-Care at Home:
- Use preservative-free artificial tears regularly
- Take regular screen breaks and blink consciously
- Apply warm compresses to improve oil gland function
- Avoid smoky or windy environments where possible
- Stay well hydrated
Treatment from a GP:
- Advice on suitable eye drops or gels
- Prescribed lubricants or anti-inflammatory drops if needed
- Treatment of underlying eyelid conditions such as blepharitis
When Referral Is Needed:
- Persistent symptoms despite regular treatment
- Significant impact on vision or daily life
- Suspected underlying autoimmune or inflammatory disease
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Seek urgent medical attention in A&E or urgent care if:
- Severe eye pain
- Sudden loss or reduction of vision
- Marked redness with light sensitivity
- Symptoms following eye injury or chemical exposure
How Dr.Online UK Can Help
We offer:
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Assessment and advice for dry eyes
- Prescriptions for eye drops if appropriate
- Referral to ophthalmology when needed
