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Writer's picturePatricia Ranieri

Conquering Dry Eyes in Australia: Your Guide to Optimal Relief

Updated: Feb 1


Woman showing how to treat dry eyes by administering eye drops


Not a Dry Eye in the House


Dry eyes are an increasingly common complaint in Australia with our screen-based lifestyle and harsh climate. This comprehensive guide dives into everything you need to know about finding the best dry eye treatments in Australia, getting increased support from eye drops, gels and ointments and which contact lenses for dry eyes are more hydration friendly.


Understanding Dry Eye Symptoms


Have you ever had a burning sensation when the car air vents blow toward your face or your eyes water in the morning when you walk the dog or having to rub your gritty or blurry eyes whilst looking on your computer screen. That’s dry eye, where your tears don’t adequately lubricate your eyes leading to discomfort, irritation redness and even blurred vision.


Australian beach where dry eyes are common because of the harsh sun

Several Factors contribute to dry eyes in Australia


  • Our sunny climate: Low humidity and high UV exposure evaporate tears quickly

  • Air conditioning: Dry air in offices and homes depletes tear moisture

  • Screen time: Staring at digital screens reduces blinking, drying out eyes

  • Contact lens use: Lenses can disrupt the tear film and irritate the eyes.


Can Dry Eyes cause blindness?


While severe dry eyes can damage the cornea, and in very rare cases can cause permanent damage, most cases of dry eye are mild to moderate and rarely lead to vision loss. While symptoms can be quite debilitating there are many treatment options that are continually advancing. Ongoing research and development by Optometry professionals is making great strides in management and treatment of Dry Eye. For more information see our Dry Eye page.


Consult your optometrist for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if you feel that management of the condition is not providing long term relief.



Glass of water - hydration can support with dry eyes

Is the glass half full?


Imagine if you put a glass of salty water out in the sun all day how quickly would it evaporate? If instead a layer of oil was added to the glass, the rate of evaporation would be reduced. The water would have a protective layer. This is similar to how your tears work, there needs to be a balance of those two components.


Optometrist recommended eyedrops for Dry Eyes


What dry eye treatments do is address one or both layers of the tear film to restore balance and stability and relieve dry eye symptoms. There is not one single product that will work for all because everyone's Dry Eye symptoms are different.


Preservative free lubricating eyedrops:

  • HyloForte for optimal comfort

  • Systane Hydration with hyaluronic acid for long lasting hydration

  • NovaTears targets those with poor oil stability

  • Optimel Manuka eyedrops are a power house with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties

Central Coast Optometrist Patricia Ranieri can support with recommending the best drops for you. These eye drops are all sold in store at Complete Optometry, Wyong NSW.


Night-time treatment for Dry Eyes: Recommended Eye Gels and Ointments


Night-time treatment and relief can be a game changer. Thicker gels like Genteal preservative free and Vita-pos ointment protect the eye surface.


Contact lens wearers and dry eye


Specialised materials in contact lenses can lessen the load on the eye surface like Alcon Total Dailies 1 which are surface treated to hold moisture on the eye.  And remember, simple lifestyle changes like avoiding excessive screen time, and blinking regularly can significantly improve your dry eye woes.

 

Taking action for added protection


  • Use a humidifier at night to add moisture to the air

  • Avoid sleeping with fans and air conditioning blowing directly on your face

  • Wear a sleep mask

  • Make sure you are drinking adequate water throughout the day


Remember: While this guide equips you with knowledge, a professional's guidance is invaluable. Consult your optometrist for a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan specific to your dry eye needs.


Are you looking for an experienced Central Coast Optometrist to support with Dry Eyes? Contact Patricia Ranieri at Complete Optometry, Wyong, NSW.

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