Dry eye is a chronic condition affecting about one-third of Australian adults and half of those aged over 50.1 Females are at greater risk of developing the condition.
Normally, a film of tears covers the surface of the eye to keep it moist, and meibomian glands in the eyelids secrete oils to slow evaporation of these tears. Dry eye results if there is an insufficient supply of tears or if the tears evaporate too quickly.
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where the glands don’t function properly either due to blockage or oil deficiency, is a leading cause of dry eye.
Sufferers have difficulty reading, using a computer, watching TV and driving. In its most severe form, dry eye can be accompanied by inflammation of the eye surface, sleep disturbances and depression. The detrimental effects (physical, emotional, financial) can be quite significant. If left untreated, some people may develop corneal ulcers, corneal scars and, rarely, even loss of vision.2
Dry eye is commonly confused with other conditions, in particular allergies. It can be tricky to diagnose because symptoms vary, are subjective and can be described in many different ways (e.g. ‘feels gritty’ vs ‘feels like something in my eye’).
The condition can’t be cured, but available treatments aim to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. The earlier dry eye is detected and treatment started, the better.
Severe, chronic dry eye can become a major financial burden, particularly with the number of products available that claim to treat dry eye and the complex nature of the underlying disease.
Unfortunately, there is no single treatment that works for everyone. It is best to see an ophthalmologist who is experienced in this area. He/she will perform a comprehensive set of diagnostic tests, recommend the most appropriate treatment for your situation and monitor your condition.
There is no cure for dry eye, but there are a number of treatments available – e.g. artificial lubricants, warm compresses, omega-3 supplements, maintaining lid hygiene, medications. It may take a bit of experimentation to find the right option for you. At times your condition will improve and you may be tempted to discontinue treatment.
However, dry eye is a chronic condition and it’s important to continue treatment, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Yes, keep using lubrication as directed by your doctor. However, make sure that you only use a product recommended by your doctor, as some eye preparations can make dry eye worse.
Mask-associated dry eye (MADE) has become common during the COVID-19 pandemic. When air vents from the top of your mask and across the surface of your eyes, it causes your tear fluid to evaporate more quickly, causing (or worsening) dry eye.
A properly fitted mask forces air to vent downwards, away from your eyes. Wearing a mask with nose wire that can be shaped to fit firmly across the bridge of your nose, or taping down the top of your mask with skin-friendly tape, can help. Additionally, try to blink more often while you wear your mask, as this distributes tear fluid across your eye.
Using dry eye treatments, such as lubricating eye drops (artificial tears), warm compresses or heated eye masks, can also help you manage MADE. If your symptoms persist or are severe, consult your optometrist, who can prescribe medications to help.
If wearing contact lenses has become uncomfortable due to MADE, consult your optometrist for alternative contact lens options.
For a full reference list, visit the dry eye FAQ page.
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Date last reviewed: 2024-07-22 | Date for next review: 2026-07-22
