Dry Eye and Sjögren’s Syndrome

Did you know that approximately one in ten patients with Dry Eye Disease also have Sjögren’s syndrome?[1] If you have both conditions, we’re here to support you. In this blog, we’ll be exploring the relationship between the two conditions and how you can treat them.

What is Sjögren’s syndrome?

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition, meaning that instead of protecting the body from abnormal cells, the immune system starts attacking healthy cells and tissue.[2] In this case, it affects the parts of the body that create fluids, like tears and saliva.[3] The condition can occur on its own or with other diseases linked to the immune system, like rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause dry eyes.[4] For more information on this condition, visit our blog: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dry Eye

How are Sjögren’s syndrome and Dry Eye Disease linked?

Sjögren’s syndrome usually appears in people aged 40-60.[3] As with Dry Eye Syndrome, it is much more common in women than men, with women nine times more likely to have Sjögren’s syndrome.[3][4] While there isn’t yet a definitive answer as to why Sjögren’s syndrome affects women more than men, researchers believe it could be linked to the hormone estrogen. Estrogen levels drop after menopause, which aligns with the ages that Sjögren’s syndrome appears.[5] To find out more about dry eyes and menopause, visit our blog: 5 Things You Need to Know About Menopause and Dry Eye

Overall, Sjögren’s syndrome and Dry Eye Disease are linked because of the immune system’s attack on tear glands. It limits the production of tears that would usually add moisture to your eyes, resulting in dry eyes.[6] Read on to find out more about the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome and dry eyes.

What are the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome and dry eyes?

There are a whole host of Sjögren’s syndrome symptoms to look out for! These include:

• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Dry skin
• Tiredness
• Vaginal dryness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Swollen salivary glands
• Rashes [3]

Because of the lack of tears being produced, people might notice Dry Eye symptoms such as:

• Itchy eyes
• Burning eyes
• Aching eyes
• Eyes feel heavy
• Eyes feel sore
• Eyes feel gritty or sandy
• Eyes are red
• Eyes are blurry
• Feeling fatigued

For more symptoms of dry eyes, visit our web page: Symptoms of Dry Eye

How do you treat dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome?

There is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome, but there are treatments that can help alleviate symptoms.[3] Follow these steps:

Stay hydrated

Adding more water to your body is a great way to combat dry eyes. Experts recommend drinking eight to 10 glasses of water a day to keep your body completely hydrated.[7] To help you do this, buy a labelled water bottle or keep a note of how much water you are drinking per day.

Avoid alcohol

Drinking alcohol is bad for dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome as it can dehydrate your body. As both conditions already do this, symptoms are intensified. Click here for more information: Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?

Eat well

What you eat can affect your eyes and health in general. You can support yourself by adding vitamins and minerals into your diet, such as Vitamin A, E and C.[8] Read more about eye health: 6 Vitamins for Dry Eyes

Consider moisture chamber goggles

Did you know wearing glasses can reduce tear evaporation by up to 30%? This can be maximised by wearing moisture chamber goggles.[2] These can be worn in the day, but it’s also a good idea to sleep in them. Find out more here: 10 Tips to Ease Dry Eye at Night

Use eye drops

Lubricating your eyes is one of the best ways to treat dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome. To find out whether you should opt for eye drops or eye gel for dry eyes, read this useful resource: Eye Drops vs Eye Gel for the Treatment of Dry Eyes

For more information about conditions related to dry eyes, visit our blog: 6 Conditions that Cause Dry Eye.

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel^® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL^® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL^® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo^® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

References

1. Akpek EK, Bunya VY, Saldanha IJ. ‘Sjögren’s Syndrome: More Than Just Dry Eye’, Cornea, National Library of Medicine, 2019 May;38(5):658-661. Accessed July 2023.
2. NHS Inform, ‘Sjogren’s syndrome’, 23/02/2023. Accessed July 2023.
3. NHS, ‘Sjögren’s syndrome’, 21/04/2020. Accessed July 2023.
4. Women’s Health Research Institute, ‘Sjogren’s Syndrome More Common in Women’. Accessed July 2023.
5. Arthritis Foundation, ‘Sjögren’s syndrome’. Accessed July 2023.
6. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, ‘Sjögren’s Syndrome’, 01/2021. Accessed July 2023.
7. Complete Eye Care, ‘How Does Hydration Affect My Eyes?’. Accessed July 2023.
8. Meixner, M. ‘The 9 Most Important Vitamins for Eye Health’, 16/02/2023. Accessed July 2023.

Nocturnal Lagophthalmos and Dry Eye

Did you know that approximately one in ten patients with Dry Eye Disease also have Sjögren’s syndrome?[1] If you have both conditions, we’re here to support you. In this blog, we’ll be exploring the relationship between the two conditions and how you can treat them.

What is Sjögren’s syndrome?

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition, meaning that instead of protecting the body from abnormal cells, the immune system starts attacking healthy cells and tissue.[2] In this case, it affects the parts of the body that create fluids, like tears and saliva.[3] The condition can occur on its own or with other diseases linked to the immune system, like rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause dry eyes.[4] For more information on this condition, visit our blog: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dry Eye

How are Sjögren’s syndrome and Dry Eye Disease linked?

Sjögren’s syndrome usually appears in people aged 40-60.[3] As with Dry Eye Syndrome, it is much more common in women than men, with women nine times more likely to have Sjögren’s syndrome.[3][4] While there isn’t yet a definitive answer as to why Sjögren’s syndrome affects women more than men, researchers believe it could be linked to the hormone estrogen. Estrogen levels drop after menopause, which aligns with the ages that Sjögren’s syndrome appears.[5] To find out more about dry eyes and menopause, visit our blog: 5 Things You Need to Know About Menopause and Dry Eye

Overall, Sjögren’s syndrome and Dry Eye Disease are linked because of the immune system’s attack on tear glands. It limits the production of tears that would usually add moisture to your eyes, resulting in dry eyes.[6] Read on to find out more about the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome and dry eyes.

What are the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome and dry eyes?

There are a whole host of Sjögren’s syndrome symptoms to look out for! These include:

• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Dry skin
• Tiredness
• Vaginal dryness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Swollen salivary glands
• Rashes [3]

Because of the lack of tears being produced, people might notice Dry Eye symptoms such as:

• Itchy eyes
• Burning eyes
• Aching eyes
• Eyes feel heavy
• Eyes feel sore
• Eyes feel gritty or sandy
• Eyes are red
• Eyes are blurry
• Feeling fatigued

For more symptoms of dry eyes, visit our web page: Symptoms of Dry Eye

How do you treat dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome?

There is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome, but there are treatments that can help alleviate symptoms.[3] Follow these steps:

Stay hydrated

Adding more water to your body is a great way to combat dry eyes. Experts recommend drinking eight to 10 glasses of water a day to keep your body completely hydrated.[7] To help you do this, buy a labelled water bottle or keep a note of how much water you are drinking per day.

Avoid alcohol

Drinking alcohol is bad for dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome as it can dehydrate your body. As both conditions already do this, symptoms are intensified. Click here for more information: Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?

Eat well

What you eat can affect your eyes and health in general. You can support yourself by adding vitamins and minerals into your diet, such as Vitamin A, E and C.[8] Read more about eye health: 6 Vitamins for Dry Eyes

Consider moisture chamber goggles

Did you know wearing glasses can reduce tear evaporation by up to 30%? This can be maximised by wearing moisture chamber goggles.[2] These can be worn in the day, but it’s also a good idea to sleep in them. Find out more here: 10 Tips to Ease Dry Eye at Night

Use eye drops

Lubricating your eyes is one of the best ways to treat dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome. To find out whether you should opt for eye drops or eye gel for dry eyes, read this useful resource: Eye Drops vs Eye Gel for the Treatment of Dry Eyes

For more information about conditions related to dry eyes, visit our blog: 6 Conditions that Cause Dry Eye.

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel^® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL^® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL^® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo^® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

References

1. Akpek EK, Bunya VY, Saldanha IJ. ‘Sjögren’s Syndrome: More Than Just Dry Eye’, Cornea, National Library of Medicine, 2019 May;38(5):658-661. Accessed July 2023.
2. NHS Inform, ‘Sjogren’s syndrome’, 23/02/2023. Accessed July 2023.
3. NHS, ‘Sjögren’s syndrome’, 21/04/2020. Accessed July 2023.
4. Women’s Health Research Institute, ‘Sjogren’s Syndrome More Common in Women’. Accessed July 2023.
5. Arthritis Foundation, ‘Sjögren’s syndrome’. Accessed July 2023.
6. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, ‘Sjögren’s Syndrome’, 01/2021. Accessed July 2023.
7. Complete Eye Care, ‘How Does Hydration Affect My Eyes?’. Accessed July 2023.
8. Meixner, M. ‘The 9 Most Important Vitamins for Eye Health’, 16/02/2023. Accessed July 2023.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dry Eye

Did you know that approximately one in ten patients with Dry Eye Disease also have Sjögren’s syndrome?[1] If you have both conditions, we’re here to support you. In this blog, we’ll be exploring the relationship between the two conditions and how you can treat them.

What is Sjögren’s syndrome?

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition, meaning that instead of protecting the body from abnormal cells, the immune system starts attacking healthy cells and tissue.[2] In this case, it affects the parts of the body that create fluids, like tears and saliva.[3] The condition can occur on its own or with other diseases linked to the immune system, like rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause dry eyes.[4] For more information on this condition, visit our blog: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dry Eye

How are Sjögren’s syndrome and Dry Eye Disease linked?

Sjögren’s syndrome usually appears in people aged 40-60.[3] As with Dry Eye Syndrome, it is much more common in women than men, with women nine times more likely to have Sjögren’s syndrome.[3][4] While there isn’t yet a definitive answer as to why Sjögren’s syndrome affects women more than men, researchers believe it could be linked to the hormone estrogen. Estrogen levels drop after menopause, which aligns with the ages that Sjögren’s syndrome appears.[5] To find out more about dry eyes and menopause, visit our blog: 5 Things You Need to Know About Menopause and Dry Eye

Overall, Sjögren’s syndrome and Dry Eye Disease are linked because of the immune system’s attack on tear glands. It limits the production of tears that would usually add moisture to your eyes, resulting in dry eyes.[6] Read on to find out more about the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome and dry eyes.

What are the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome and dry eyes?

There are a whole host of Sjögren’s syndrome symptoms to look out for! These include:

• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Dry skin
• Tiredness
• Vaginal dryness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Swollen salivary glands
• Rashes [3]

Because of the lack of tears being produced, people might notice Dry Eye symptoms such as:

• Itchy eyes
• Burning eyes
• Aching eyes
• Eyes feel heavy
• Eyes feel sore
• Eyes feel gritty or sandy
• Eyes are red
• Eyes are blurry
• Feeling fatigued

For more symptoms of dry eyes, visit our web page: Symptoms of Dry Eye

How do you treat dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome?

There is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome, but there are treatments that can help alleviate symptoms.[3] Follow these steps:

Stay hydrated

Adding more water to your body is a great way to combat dry eyes. Experts recommend drinking eight to 10 glasses of water a day to keep your body completely hydrated.[7] To help you do this, buy a labelled water bottle or keep a note of how much water you are drinking per day.

Avoid alcohol

Drinking alcohol is bad for dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome as it can dehydrate your body. As both conditions already do this, symptoms are intensified. Click here for more information: Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?

Eat well

What you eat can affect your eyes and health in general. You can support yourself by adding vitamins and minerals into your diet, such as Vitamin A, E and C.[8] Read more about eye health: 6 Vitamins for Dry Eyes

Consider moisture chamber goggles

Did you know wearing glasses can reduce tear evaporation by up to 30%? This can be maximised by wearing moisture chamber goggles.[2] These can be worn in the day, but it’s also a good idea to sleep in them. Find out more here: 10 Tips to Ease Dry Eye at Night

Use eye drops

Lubricating your eyes is one of the best ways to treat dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome. To find out whether you should opt for eye drops or eye gel for dry eyes, read this useful resource: Eye Drops vs Eye Gel for the Treatment of Dry Eyes

For more information about conditions related to dry eyes, visit our blog: 6 Conditions that Cause Dry Eye.

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel^® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL^® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL^® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo^® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

References

1. Akpek EK, Bunya VY, Saldanha IJ. ‘Sjögren’s Syndrome: More Than Just Dry Eye’, Cornea, National Library of Medicine, 2019 May;38(5):658-661. Accessed July 2023.
2. NHS Inform, ‘Sjogren’s syndrome’, 23/02/2023. Accessed July 2023.
3. NHS, ‘Sjögren’s syndrome’, 21/04/2020. Accessed July 2023.
4. Women’s Health Research Institute, ‘Sjogren’s Syndrome More Common in Women’. Accessed July 2023.
5. Arthritis Foundation, ‘Sjögren’s syndrome’. Accessed July 2023.
6. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, ‘Sjögren’s Syndrome’, 01/2021. Accessed July 2023.
7. Complete Eye Care, ‘How Does Hydration Affect My Eyes?’. Accessed July 2023.
8. Meixner, M. ‘The 9 Most Important Vitamins for Eye Health’, 16/02/2023. Accessed July 2023.

Blepharitis and Dry Eye

Did you know that approximately one in ten patients with Dry Eye Disease also have Sjögren’s syndrome?[1] If you have both conditions, we’re here to support you. In this blog, we’ll be exploring the relationship between the two conditions and how you can treat them.

What is Sjögren’s syndrome?

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition, meaning that instead of protecting the body from abnormal cells, the immune system starts attacking healthy cells and tissue.[2] In this case, it affects the parts of the body that create fluids, like tears and saliva.[3] The condition can occur on its own or with other diseases linked to the immune system, like rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause dry eyes.[4] For more information on this condition, visit our blog: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dry Eye

How are Sjögren’s syndrome and Dry Eye Disease linked?

Sjögren’s syndrome usually appears in people aged 40-60.[3] As with Dry Eye Syndrome, it is much more common in women than men, with women nine times more likely to have Sjögren’s syndrome.[3][4] While there isn’t yet a definitive answer as to why Sjögren’s syndrome affects women more than men, researchers believe it could be linked to the hormone estrogen. Estrogen levels drop after menopause, which aligns with the ages that Sjögren’s syndrome appears.[5] To find out more about dry eyes and menopause, visit our blog: 5 Things You Need to Know About Menopause and Dry Eye

Overall, Sjögren’s syndrome and Dry Eye Disease are linked because of the immune system’s attack on tear glands. It limits the production of tears that would usually add moisture to your eyes, resulting in dry eyes.[6] Read on to find out more about the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome and dry eyes.

What are the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome and dry eyes?

There are a whole host of Sjögren’s syndrome symptoms to look out for! These include:

• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Dry skin
• Tiredness
• Vaginal dryness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Swollen salivary glands
• Rashes [3]

Because of the lack of tears being produced, people might notice Dry Eye symptoms such as:

• Itchy eyes
• Burning eyes
• Aching eyes
• Eyes feel heavy
• Eyes feel sore
• Eyes feel gritty or sandy
• Eyes are red
• Eyes are blurry
• Feeling fatigued

For more symptoms of dry eyes, visit our web page: Symptoms of Dry Eye

How do you treat dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome?

There is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome, but there are treatments that can help alleviate symptoms.[3] Follow these steps:

Stay hydrated

Adding more water to your body is a great way to combat dry eyes. Experts recommend drinking eight to 10 glasses of water a day to keep your body completely hydrated.[7] To help you do this, buy a labelled water bottle or keep a note of how much water you are drinking per day.

Avoid alcohol

Drinking alcohol is bad for dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome as it can dehydrate your body. As both conditions already do this, symptoms are intensified. Click here for more information: Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?

Eat well

What you eat can affect your eyes and health in general. You can support yourself by adding vitamins and minerals into your diet, such as Vitamin A, E and C.[8] Read more about eye health: 6 Vitamins for Dry Eyes

Consider moisture chamber goggles

Did you know wearing glasses can reduce tear evaporation by up to 30%? This can be maximised by wearing moisture chamber goggles.[2] These can be worn in the day, but it’s also a good idea to sleep in them. Find out more here: 10 Tips to Ease Dry Eye at Night

Use eye drops

Lubricating your eyes is one of the best ways to treat dry eyes and Sjögren’s syndrome. To find out whether you should opt for eye drops or eye gel for dry eyes, read this useful resource: Eye Drops vs Eye Gel for the Treatment of Dry Eyes

For more information about conditions related to dry eyes, visit our blog: 6 Conditions that Cause Dry Eye.

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel^® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL^® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL^® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo^® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

References

1. Akpek EK, Bunya VY, Saldanha IJ. ‘Sjögren’s Syndrome: More Than Just Dry Eye’, Cornea, National Library of Medicine, 2019 May;38(5):658-661. Accessed July 2023.
2. NHS Inform, ‘Sjogren’s syndrome’, 23/02/2023. Accessed July 2023.
3. NHS, ‘Sjögren’s syndrome’, 21/04/2020. Accessed July 2023.
4. Women’s Health Research Institute, ‘Sjogren’s Syndrome More Common in Women’. Accessed July 2023.
5. Arthritis Foundation, ‘Sjögren’s syndrome’. Accessed July 2023.
6. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, ‘Sjögren’s Syndrome’, 01/2021. Accessed July 2023.
7. Complete Eye Care, ‘How Does Hydration Affect My Eyes?’. Accessed July 2023.
8. Meixner, M. ‘The 9 Most Important Vitamins for Eye Health’, 16/02/2023. Accessed July 2023.

3-Step Treatment Plan for Dry Eyes

A three-step treatment plan is one of the most effective ways to treat dry eyes. By following these three simple steps, you could reduce your symptoms significantly.

Step 1: Use a warm compress

Begin by using a heated compress, such as MeiboPatch®, over your eyes. Lay this over your upper face so that it covers the bridge of your nose, upper and lower eyelids.

You should keep this mask on for seven to 10 minutes, during which time it will gently release warmth which can fluidise secretions that may have blocked the meibomian glands.

After you remove the mask, you should give your dry eyes a gentle eyelid massage to help release the oils from the glands.

Always keep your eyes closed when using a warm compress, and we recommend buying a new MeiboPatch® every 1-2 months, to make sure hygiene measures are followed.[1]

To find out more about our MeiboPatch®, click here: MeiboPatch®

Step 2: Wipe your dry eyes

Cleanse and wipe away the melted oil from your meibomian glands, as well as any built-up debris. You should do this with a cleanser like Naviblef®.

Close your dry eyes and massage your eyelids and eyelashes with the foam, then leave it there for around 60-80 seconds. Then, rinse your eyelashes and eyelids with warm water.

Discover more about Naviblef® here: Naviblef® [2]

Step 3: Lubricate your dry eyes

Use an effective lubricant like any drop from our VISUfamily range. Depending on your condition, you need to choose an eye drop that will work for you and ease your symptoms.

Find out more about what eye drop for dry eyes would be best for you here: Eye Drops vs Eye Gel For The Treatment of Dry Eyes

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel^® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL^® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL^® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo^® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

References

1. MeiboPatch® Instructions for Use (IFU). Accessed February 2023.
2. Naviblef® Instructions for Use (IFU). Accessed February 2023.

How to Put in Eye Drops for Dry Eye

Whether you’re using eye drops for hay fever, conditions like styes, or Dry Eye Disease, we’re here for you. Read on to find out our tips on how to put in eye drops for Dry Eye.

How to put in eye drops: Step-by-step instructions

Before you put your eye drops in, make sure that your hands are nice and clean. Additionally, have tissues nearby to wipe away any excess tears or drops that might occur.[1]

Step 1: Prepare

Wash your hands and make sure that you have everything you need around you.

Step 2: Tilt your head

Sit up and look up, or lay down if this is easier. 

Step 3: Pull down your eyelid

Pull your eyelid down and away from your eyeball, making a pocket for your drops.

Step 4: Squeeze the bottle

Put the prescribed number of drops into your eye, or the number of drops suggested on the bottle or instructions for use. You may have to squeeze or use a pump action to administer the drops.

Step 5: Close your eyes

Close your eye for at least one minute and hold your finger over your tear duct (the small hole in the corner of your eye).

Make sure that you always close the eye drop container after use.[2] If you use more than one type of eye medication, wait at least five minutes between using each type.[3]

Should you blink after putting eye drops in?

This often depends on doctor’s advice. However, Dan T. Gudgel of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recommends that you should not blink. Instead, close your eyes for at least one minute.[4]

How long should you close your eyes after eye drops?

You should close your eyes for a minimum of one minute, to allow the drops to soak into your eyes and prevent them from soaking into your nose.[3]

How many times a day can you use eye drops?

The number of times a day you should use eye drops varies depending on the type of eye drop you choose. VisuXL® eye drops only need to be used two times a day, making them a solution that can become part of your daily routine.[2]  

How far away do you hold eye drops?

You should put eye drops within one inch of your eye, when you are applying them.[5] This allows you to aim better into the pocket that you have created.

How should I store eye drops?

Eye drops need to be stored effectively to prevent being spoiled. Bottles usually need to be kept in a cool, dry place, unless otherwise stated on the instructions for use.[6]

Best eye drops for dry eyes

We offer a vast range of eye drops for dry eyes, so that you can be prepared. From VisuXL® Gel to Xailin® Tears, we have everything you could need.

Our latest blog helps you to identify which Dry Eye products would suit your needs, based on your symptoms. For more information on eye gels and eye drops for dry eyes, visit this blog: Eye Drops vs Eye Gel for Dry Eyes

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel^® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL^® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL^® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo^® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

References

1. Healthline. ‘How to Use Eye Drops’. Accessed January 2023.
2. VisuXL® Instructions for Use (IFU). Accessed January 2023.
3. National Eye Institute. ‘How to Put in Eye Drops’, 23/07/21. Accessed January 2023.
4. Dan T. Gudgel. ‘How to Put in Eye Drops’, American Academy of Ophthamology, 10/03/21. Accessed January 2023.
5. WebMD. ‘How to Insert Eye Drops’, 21/08/22. Accessed January 2023.
6. Dr.Manoj Rai Mehta. ‘How to Safely Store Eye Drop Dispensers at Home or Office’,Practo, 06/04/17. Accessed January 2023.

Can the Environment Cause Dry Eyes?

You may have noticed that the change of seasons or new surroundings has suddenly worsened your Dry Eye symptoms. This is because your environment can trigger Dry Eye syndrome, with factors like the weather, climate, and air quality all contributing. Let’s explore some of the specific environmental factors to bear in mind when trying to improve your condition. 

Can the time of year impact dry eyes?

Changes to the air temperature, humidity, and air quality come with the changing seasons. So it’s only natural that throughout certain seasons your eyes may become more irritated and dry. Spring can bring about seasonal allergies such as hay fever when allergens in the air are more prominent. When the pollen count is high, many Dry Eye sufferers will find that their symptoms worsen. However, we’d always recommend speaking to your doctor if this is the case, as often over-the-counter medication such as antihistamines can make Dry Eye symptoms worse as a side effect. 

In addition to this, colder months throughout winter can irritate dry eyes the most when compared to the other seasons. This is because of the cold air outside, combined with indoor heating making a very dry environment. Indoor humidifiers are a good way to try and keep more moisture in your air at home and help to improve your symptoms.[1]

What climate is best for dry eyes?

Hot, dry air can cause moisture from your eyes to evaporate quickly, yet as we’ve discussed already, colder weather can trigger dry eye syndrome too.  The key is to find a climate that’s not too hot, or too cold. Many researchers have seen a dip in Dry Eye throughout the summer months due to the humid air and warmer temperatures.[1] Therefore, a warm environment with plenty of moisture and humidity in the air is the ideal climate for Dry Eye sufferers.[2] So pack your bags and book that plane ticket, because now you have the perfect excuse to go on holiday!

The impact of living in the city on dry eyes

While living and working in the city can be fun and energising, it can also take a toll on your eyes. Let’s look at some of the common causes of Dry Eye Syndrome in the city.

Air pollution

Our eyes are exposed to everything in the air surrounding us, whether that’s fresh air from the countryside, smoke from a fire, or pollution from traffic in the city. When exposed to pollution, small particles of dust and smoke can become stuck in your tear film. This means that you’re not able to produce as many tears to keep your eyes lubricated and moist, which often results in dry, irritated eyes. You can help to ease these symptoms by using umbrellas to shield your face against smog and dust, as well as wrap-around sunglasses to stop these things from going in your eyes. [3]

Screen time 

When working in cities, it’s often the norm to have a standard 9-5 office job, where you spend most of your day behind a computer screen. In addition to this, many who live in the city rely on public transport such as trains, trams or buses to get to and from work every day. During this commute, the majority of people will be on their phones. Increased screen time can result in a condition called Digital Eye Strain, or Computer Eye Syndrome. It’s a common condition that affects many office workers, yet only 1 in 5 people are aware of having it.[3] Trying to reduce your screen time is the best way to reduce the symptoms of Digital Eye Strain and keep your monitor at eye level when working. 

How to alleviate Dry Eye symptoms

While there is no permanent cure for Dry Eye Syndrome, there are some simple steps you can take to help alleviate your symptoms. 

Eat more vitamins

Monitoring your diet and increasing the amount of specific vitamins you eat can be useful in reducing dry eyes. Here is a list of the best vitamins for the eyes. 

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• Omega 3
• Vitamin C
• Flaxseed Oil
• Zinc
• Vitamin D
• Lutein & Zeaxanthin [4]

Wear wrap-around sunglasses

Wearing special wrap-around glasses for dry eyes is a great way to ensure your eyes stay protected from harsh winds, cold air, dust, and debris. These glasses also often feature special lenses which act as a barrier between your eyes and the environment – including allergens like pollen. This makes them a great choice for hay fever sufferers, as the condition can make Dry Eye symptoms worse.[5] 

Take a break from screen time

As we’ve previously mentioned, screen time is one of the biggest causes of Dry Eye Syndrome. Reducing your screen time where possible will help to relieve your symptoms. Even if you work behind a computer, taking regular breaks from looking at the screen is important. We like to follow the 20/20/20 rule, which is a simple lifestyle change to help remind you to take a break from your screen. The rule is that every 20 minutes, you should look at something which is 20 feet away, for 20 seconds or more. This can be applied when working or watching TV, and numerous studies have found that it’s successful in alleviating Dry Eye symptoms as a result of too much screen time.[6]

For more information on Computer Vision Syndrome, read our blog.

Use VisuXL Gel® 

While these lifestyle changes can help to relieve your symptoms of Dry Eye, the best way to feel fully comfortable is to use over-the-counter medications.  VisuXL Gel® provides 12-hour protection with just one drop and works by increasing the moisture in your eyes to form a protective cushion around them.[7]

To find out more about VisuXL® Gel visit our VISUfarma shop.

In most cases, the best way to treat dry eyes, Also known as dry eye syndrome, is to use eye gel or eye drops.

VisuXL Gel^® is a preservative-free smart gel lubricant for dry eye syndrome. It provides comfort in a bottle with it’s long-lasting lubrication properties giving 12-hour dosing with just one drop and is suitable for both day and night use.

VisuXL^® is a preservative-free eye drop lubricant for dry eye syndrome. Due to its unique ingredients, VisuXL^® will help you recover from eye surgery, an injury or persistent damaging dry eye.

VisuEvo^® is a preservative-free eye drop that prevents excessive evaporation of the tear film. Its unique formula contains omega-3 essential fatty acids, Vitamins A and D and ultra-filtered phospholipids that facilitate tear film presentation and control evaporation.

All three products are contact lens-friendly and can be used for 180 days after opening.

Shop now

References

1. Complete Eye Care of Medina, ‘Which season has the greatest impact on dry eyes’. Accessed December 2022.
2. Seltman, Whitney, ‘Climate, Environment and Dry Eye’ WebMD, 21/06/21. Accessed December 2022.
3. London Vision Clinic, ‘The effect on your eyes working in the city (London)’ 6/11/15. Accessed December 2022.
4. Capogna, Laurie, Eye Wellness, ‘The Best Supplements for Dry Eye’ 13/07/21. Accessed December 2022.
5. Specsavers, ‘Dry Eyes and Glasses Explained’. Accessed December 2022.
6. Reddy, S. C., Low, C., Lim, Y., Low, L., Mardina, F. and Nursaleha, M. (2013) “Computer vision syndrome: a study of knowledge and practices in university students”, Nepalese Journal of Ophthalmology. Accessed December 2022.
7. VisuXL Gel Instructions for Use (IFU). Accessed December 2022.