Best Treatment For Dry Eyes

What causes dry eyes?

Dry eyes happen when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the tears produced are of poor quality. Tears are essential for keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable. They wash away dust, reduce the risk of infection, and provide nutrients to the cornea.

Some common causes of dry eyes include:

• Ageing: Tear production often slows down with age, especially after 50.
• Hormonal changes: Menopause is a common time for dry eye symptoms to appear in women.
• Screen time: Staring at screens for long periods can reduce blink rate, leading to dryness.
• Medical conditions: Conditions such as blepharitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes are linked to dry eyes.
• Medications: Some antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs may reduce tear production.
• Contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can disturb the tear film.

Symptoms to watch for

Dry eyes may not always present the same way in every person. While some experience mild symptoms, others may face more intense discomfort. Common signs include:

• Burning or stinging sensation
• Redness
• A feeling of grit or sand in the eyes
• Blurred vision that improves with blinking
• Watery eyes (a response to dryness)
• Light sensitivity

If left untreated, dry eyes may harm the surface of the eye and contribute to more serious problems over time.

Everyday changes that help

For many, simple adjustments to daily habits can significantly improve symptoms. These include:

• Taking regular breaks when using screens to encourage blinking.
• Using a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air.
• Wearing wraparound sunglasses to reduce wind exposure.
• Drinking plenty of water to support tear production.
• Avoiding smoke or air conditioning that worsens eye dryness.

Artificial tears and eye drops

One of the most widely used treatments for dry eyes is artificial tears. These are available over the counter in the form of eye drops, gels, or ointments. They help by adding moisture to the eyes and mimicking natural tears.

Preservative-free eye drops are often recommended for people with moderate to severe symptoms, especially if drops are used frequently throughout the day. This is because some preservatives in eye drops may cause irritation over time.

Prescription treatments

If over-the-counter products do not help, an optometrist or ophthalmologist might suggest prescription medication. These include:

• Cyclosporine eye drops (e.g., Ikervis): These help reduce inflammation in the eyes and increase natural tear production. Ikervis is available and is used under the guidance of an eye specialist.
• Lifitegrast: Although not currently available on the NHS, this medicine is approved in other countries and works in a similar way to cyclosporine by targeting inflammation.
• Corticosteroid eye drops: Short-term use of steroid drops may be prescribed to quickly reduce inflammation, especially in more severe cases. However, they are used with caution because of the potential for side effects with long-term use.

Punctal plugs

For people with chronic dry eyes, punctal plugs may be recommended. These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage, helping tears stay on the eye surface longer.

The procedure is quick and usually painless. It can be a good option when drops alone do not provide enough relief. These are typically fitted by a specialist in hospital eye services.

Heated eye masks and lid hygiene

Blepharitis is a common cause of dry eyes, and regular lid cleaning can help control symptoms. Heated eye masks applied for 5–10 minutes help loosen the oils in the eyelid glands, allowing for better tear quality.

Following up with gentle lid massage and cleaning using special wipes or a warm flannel can help keep the eyelid margins clean. This process supports healthy tear production and reduces inflammation.

Meibomian gland expression

The meibomian glands in your eyelids produce oils that stop your tears from evaporating too quickly. If these glands become blocked, it can lead to dry eye symptoms. A professional treatment called meibomian gland expression involves warming and massaging the eyelids to clear these blockages.

Although this can be done at home with heat masks, in-office treatments use stronger heat and gentle mechanical pressure to improve results. These procedures are available in specialist clinics and may be offered privately.

Light-based therapy

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is another treatment option for chronic dry eye, especially when linked to meibomian gland dysfunction. IPL uses flashes of light to reduce inflammation and improve oil flow in the glands.

While not routinely available on the NHS, some private clinics offer IPL for dry eyes. The procedure is painless and usually done over several sessions.

When to see a professional

While mild dry eyes can often be managed at home, persistent or worsening symptoms should be assessed by an eye specialist. An optometrist can check tear quality and quantity using simple tests, and refer you for more advanced care if needed.