Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eyes are a chronic condition caused by an inadequate production and maintenance of tears to keep the eye surface lubricated.

This can either be due to inadequate tear production or an increased rate of tear evaporation off the surface of the eye.

Dry eye syndrome can cause many different symptoms, ranging from mild to severe.

These symptoms include

• Dry and itching eyes
• Burning sensations in the eye
• Pain in the eye
• Eye fatigue
• Watery eyes
• Blurred vision
• Feeling as though you have a foreign body in your eye
• Eye Irritation
• Increased tear production following a period of dryness

Leading Cause of Dry eyes

• Ageing
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, oral contraceptive pills and menopause can cause dry eye symptoms
• Medications: Antihistamines, blood pressure medications and antidepressants can reduce your eyes tear production
• Environmental factors: Being in air conditioned environments, dusty, dry or windy climates
• Computer and Screens: When you watch tv or do computer work you tend to blink less which leads to dry eyes
• Medical conditions: Diabetes, Lupus, Sjogrens, arthritis and thyroid problems can cause dry eyes
• Lasik surgery
• Extended contact lens use

How Dry Eyes are Diagnosed

If you think you are currently suffering from dry eyes, a comprehensive eye examination by an Optometrist will confirm the diagnosis and determine the underlying cause of your condition. There are specialised tests that our Optometrists can do to assess the type and severity of your dry eyes.

Treatment of Your Dry Eyes

At Cooper and Lourie, we offer a range of effective treatments that help manage the symptoms of dry eyes including:

1. E-Eye IPL treatments for dry eyes
2. Warm and cold compresses depending on the type of symptoms you’re experiencing
3. Lubricating wetting drops
4. Education about environmental factors that could be making your dry eyes worse

If you suffer from dry eyes call our Innaloo practice on (94461887) or our Nedlands practice on (93868581) today