The Reason You Should be Embracing Dry January for Your Dry Eye Disease  

When it comes to Dry Eye Disease, many people suffer from the condition but don’t know how to alleviate the symptoms. 

You don’t need to suffer in silence. There are many things you can do to avoid the tired, itchy feeling – including lifestyle changes. 

While eye drops and dedication can help improve the symptoms of the condition and repair damage to the eyes that can aggravate Dry Eye Disease, lifestyle changes can help you avoid triggers that cause your discomfort.  

One of the largest triggers of many conditions that you might not consider is alcohol. Alcohol has been linked to the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease and there’s evidence that a reduction of your alcohol consumption can actually help reduce symptoms of dry eye.  

This January, like the last few years, a national campaign in the UK is taking place to help reduce drinking and aid people in quitting for good.  

Here’s why you should consider taking on Dry January for your Dry Eye Disease.  

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is a condition in which the healthy tear film of your eyes becomes disrupted and damaged, causing symptoms such as:  

• Itching  
• Burning 
• A feeling of grit or sand in your eye  
• Excessive tear production  
• Blurred vision  
• Sensitivity to light  
• And many others[1]

It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.[2] When you don’t have adequate hydrating tears the eyelid scrapes over the desiccated surface instead of gliding over the smooth film of tears, causing irritation and discomfort.[3] It also risks damaging your eyes permanently.  

There are different forms of Dry Eye Disease including Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye where your eyes don’t produce enough tears, Evaporative Dry Eye where your tears evaporate too quickly, and Mixed Dry Eye where patients suffer from both.[4] 

There’s no definite cause of Dry Eye as it can be a symptom of many other illnesses, a side effect of medication, or can be related to environmental or lifestyle changes. However, it is very common with up to 32.1% of the UK population reporting the condition.[5]  

How Does Alcohol Affect Dry Eye?

Drinking alcohol has many effects on your body. Studies show a high correlation between alcohol use and symptomatic Dry Eye, especially in females.[6]  It can stimulate your appetite, widen blood vessels, impact your behaviour and brain function, and increase urine production.[7] This is part of the reason you can become thirsty and dehydrated when you consume alcohol.  

A lack of hydration has been linked to Dry Eye Disease with experts suggesting increased water intake for sufferers of Dry Eye Disease as drinking more water can help you produce a healthy volume of tears and ensure healthy lacrimal glands.[8]

Furthermore, alcohol use has been linked to premature ageing. Ageing has been known as a factor in the development of Dry Eye Disease and other eye conditions such as cataract formation and macular degeneration.[9]  

Alcohol intake can also increase the sugar level in your blood, causing your eye lenses to swell and resulting in blurring vision, itchy and irritated eyes.[10] While your blood sugar levels will revert within 24 hours of drinking, the symptoms of Dry Eyes may not fade until a week after your alcohol intake.  

What is Dry January?

Dry January was founded by Alcohol Change UK in an effort to aid the UK population to give up or reduce their intake of alcohol for the entire month of January.[11]

There’s a variety of reasons people may choose to partake in the campaign – with 86% of participants saving money and 70% of participants claiming they experienced better sleep.[12]  

Joining Dry January and committing to not drinking for the month can drastically improve your Dry Eye symptoms in the long run and help you build better habits for your overall eye health.  

Damp January  

If completely abstaining from alcohol for January seems like too big of a challenge or you’re not ready to commit to such a drastic change, you can consider attempting damp January instead. It follows a more moderate approach to drinking, allowing the occasionally mindfully chosen drink.[13] In combination with extra hydration and other lifestyle changes, you should be able to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without triggering intense Dry Eye symptoms.  

How to Tackle Dry Eye Symptoms  

Alongside reducing alcohol consumption, there are many things you can do to reduce the severity of your symptoms and fight your Dry Eye Disease. 
 

• Getting enough sleep (around 7 to 8 hours a night is recommended). 

• Limiting screen time and taking breaks from screens. Using the 20:20:20 rule is ideal, especially when you work in an office.  

• Avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning.  

• Speaking to your doctor about prescription medicines that can help deal with serious Dry Eye Disease.  

• Implement a three-step daily routine to keep your eyes clean, hydrated, and cared for with products like Naviblef® Daily Care.  

• Soothe irritation, pain, and burning with eye drops like VisuXL® 

If you’d like to find more Dry Eye treatment options, explore VISUshop now.  

While Dry Eye Disease can be uncomfortable, you’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Get the help you need today and try Dry January.  

References

1. NHS, ‘Dry Eyes’, Last Accessed December 2024
2. The Clinic, ‘Surviving ‘Dry January’: How to Combat Dry Eyes in Winter’, Last Accessed December 2024
3. Smith-Jaynes, Ceri, ‘Dry January?’, Last Accessed December 2024
4. Cleveland Clinic, ‘Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
5. Casemor, Rachel K, Wolffsohn, James.S, Dutta, Debarun, ‘Dry Eye Clinical Practice Patterns of UK Optometrists’, 09/05/2023, Last Accessed December 2024
6. Magno, Morten Schjerven, et al, ‘The Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Dry Eye’ 16/03/2021, Last Accessed December 2024
7. Nidirect, ‘What happens When You Drink Alcohol’, Last Accessed December 2024
8. Healthline, ‘Ask the Expert: Dehydration and Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
9. Complete Family Eyecare, ‘Dry January – Alcohol and Your Vision’, 18/01/2024, Last Accessed December 2024
10. Dry Eye and Me ‘Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?’, Last Accessed December 2024
11. How Dry January Affects Your Eye Health’, 05/01/2018, Last Accessed February 2025
12. Alcohol Change UK, ‘Dry January’, Last Accessed December 2024 
13. Filson, Mackenzie, ‘Can’t Commit To Dry January? Try Damp January’, 06/01/2023, Last Accessed December 2024

Battling Dry Eye in Bad Weather

When it comes to Dry Eye Disease, many people suffer from the condition but don’t know how to alleviate the symptoms. 

You don’t need to suffer in silence. There are many things you can do to avoid the tired, itchy feeling – including lifestyle changes. 

While eye drops and dedication can help improve the symptoms of the condition and repair damage to the eyes that can aggravate Dry Eye Disease, lifestyle changes can help you avoid triggers that cause your discomfort.  

One of the largest triggers of many conditions that you might not consider is alcohol. Alcohol has been linked to the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease and there’s evidence that a reduction of your alcohol consumption can actually help reduce symptoms of dry eye.  

This January, like the last few years, a national campaign in the UK is taking place to help reduce drinking and aid people in quitting for good.  

Here’s why you should consider taking on Dry January for your Dry Eye Disease.  

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is a condition in which the healthy tear film of your eyes becomes disrupted and damaged, causing symptoms such as:  

• Itching  
• Burning 
• A feeling of grit or sand in your eye  
• Excessive tear production  
• Blurred vision  
• Sensitivity to light  
• And many others[1]

It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.[2] When you don’t have adequate hydrating tears the eyelid scrapes over the desiccated surface instead of gliding over the smooth film of tears, causing irritation and discomfort.[3] It also risks damaging your eyes permanently.  

There are different forms of Dry Eye Disease including Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye where your eyes don’t produce enough tears, Evaporative Dry Eye where your tears evaporate too quickly, and Mixed Dry Eye where patients suffer from both.[4] 

There’s no definite cause of Dry Eye as it can be a symptom of many other illnesses, a side effect of medication, or can be related to environmental or lifestyle changes. However, it is very common with up to 32.1% of the UK population reporting the condition.[5]  

How Does Alcohol Affect Dry Eye?

Drinking alcohol has many effects on your body. Studies show a high correlation between alcohol use and symptomatic Dry Eye, especially in females.[6]  It can stimulate your appetite, widen blood vessels, impact your behaviour and brain function, and increase urine production.[7] This is part of the reason you can become thirsty and dehydrated when you consume alcohol.  

A lack of hydration has been linked to Dry Eye Disease with experts suggesting increased water intake for sufferers of Dry Eye Disease as drinking more water can help you produce a healthy volume of tears and ensure healthy lacrimal glands.[8]

Furthermore, alcohol use has been linked to premature ageing. Ageing has been known as a factor in the development of Dry Eye Disease and other eye conditions such as cataract formation and macular degeneration.[9]  

Alcohol intake can also increase the sugar level in your blood, causing your eye lenses to swell and resulting in blurring vision, itchy and irritated eyes.[10] While your blood sugar levels will revert within 24 hours of drinking, the symptoms of Dry Eyes may not fade until a week after your alcohol intake.  

What is Dry January?

Dry January was founded by Alcohol Change UK in an effort to aid the UK population to give up or reduce their intake of alcohol for the entire month of January.[11]

There’s a variety of reasons people may choose to partake in the campaign – with 86% of participants saving money and 70% of participants claiming they experienced better sleep.[12]  

Joining Dry January and committing to not drinking for the month can drastically improve your Dry Eye symptoms in the long run and help you build better habits for your overall eye health.  

Damp January  

If completely abstaining from alcohol for January seems like too big of a challenge or you’re not ready to commit to such a drastic change, you can consider attempting damp January instead. It follows a more moderate approach to drinking, allowing the occasionally mindfully chosen drink.[13] In combination with extra hydration and other lifestyle changes, you should be able to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without triggering intense Dry Eye symptoms.  

How to Tackle Dry Eye Symptoms  

Alongside reducing alcohol consumption, there are many things you can do to reduce the severity of your symptoms and fight your Dry Eye Disease. 
 

• Getting enough sleep (around 7 to 8 hours a night is recommended). 

• Limiting screen time and taking breaks from screens. Using the 20:20:20 rule is ideal, especially when you work in an office.  

• Avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning.  

• Speaking to your doctor about prescription medicines that can help deal with serious Dry Eye Disease.  

• Implement a three-step daily routine to keep your eyes clean, hydrated, and cared for with products like Naviblef® Daily Care.  

• Soothe irritation, pain, and burning with eye drops like VisuXL® 

If you’d like to find more Dry Eye treatment options, explore VISUshop now.  

While Dry Eye Disease can be uncomfortable, you’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Get the help you need today and try Dry January.  

References

1. NHS, ‘Dry Eyes’, Last Accessed December 2024
2. The Clinic, ‘Surviving ‘Dry January’: How to Combat Dry Eyes in Winter’, Last Accessed December 2024
3. Smith-Jaynes, Ceri, ‘Dry January?’, Last Accessed December 2024
4. Cleveland Clinic, ‘Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
5. Casemor, Rachel K, Wolffsohn, James.S, Dutta, Debarun, ‘Dry Eye Clinical Practice Patterns of UK Optometrists’, 09/05/2023, Last Accessed December 2024
6. Magno, Morten Schjerven, et al, ‘The Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Dry Eye’ 16/03/2021, Last Accessed December 2024
7. Nidirect, ‘What happens When You Drink Alcohol’, Last Accessed December 2024
8. Healthline, ‘Ask the Expert: Dehydration and Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
9. Complete Family Eyecare, ‘Dry January – Alcohol and Your Vision’, 18/01/2024, Last Accessed December 2024
10. Dry Eye and Me ‘Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?’, Last Accessed December 2024
11. How Dry January Affects Your Eye Health’, 05/01/2018, Last Accessed February 2025
12. Alcohol Change UK, ‘Dry January’, Last Accessed December 2024 
13. Filson, Mackenzie, ‘Can’t Commit To Dry January? Try Damp January’, 06/01/2023, Last Accessed December 2024

Makeup Tips for Dry Eye: Can you wear eyelash extensions?  

When it comes to Dry Eye Disease, many people suffer from the condition but don’t know how to alleviate the symptoms. 

You don’t need to suffer in silence. There are many things you can do to avoid the tired, itchy feeling – including lifestyle changes. 

While eye drops and dedication can help improve the symptoms of the condition and repair damage to the eyes that can aggravate Dry Eye Disease, lifestyle changes can help you avoid triggers that cause your discomfort.  

One of the largest triggers of many conditions that you might not consider is alcohol. Alcohol has been linked to the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease and there’s evidence that a reduction of your alcohol consumption can actually help reduce symptoms of dry eye.  

This January, like the last few years, a national campaign in the UK is taking place to help reduce drinking and aid people in quitting for good.  

Here’s why you should consider taking on Dry January for your Dry Eye Disease.  

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is a condition in which the healthy tear film of your eyes becomes disrupted and damaged, causing symptoms such as:  

• Itching  
• Burning 
• A feeling of grit or sand in your eye  
• Excessive tear production  
• Blurred vision  
• Sensitivity to light  
• And many others[1]

It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.[2] When you don’t have adequate hydrating tears the eyelid scrapes over the desiccated surface instead of gliding over the smooth film of tears, causing irritation and discomfort.[3] It also risks damaging your eyes permanently.  

There are different forms of Dry Eye Disease including Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye where your eyes don’t produce enough tears, Evaporative Dry Eye where your tears evaporate too quickly, and Mixed Dry Eye where patients suffer from both.[4] 

There’s no definite cause of Dry Eye as it can be a symptom of many other illnesses, a side effect of medication, or can be related to environmental or lifestyle changes. However, it is very common with up to 32.1% of the UK population reporting the condition.[5]  

How Does Alcohol Affect Dry Eye?

Drinking alcohol has many effects on your body. Studies show a high correlation between alcohol use and symptomatic Dry Eye, especially in females.[6]  It can stimulate your appetite, widen blood vessels, impact your behaviour and brain function, and increase urine production.[7] This is part of the reason you can become thirsty and dehydrated when you consume alcohol.  

A lack of hydration has been linked to Dry Eye Disease with experts suggesting increased water intake for sufferers of Dry Eye Disease as drinking more water can help you produce a healthy volume of tears and ensure healthy lacrimal glands.[8]

Furthermore, alcohol use has been linked to premature ageing. Ageing has been known as a factor in the development of Dry Eye Disease and other eye conditions such as cataract formation and macular degeneration.[9]  

Alcohol intake can also increase the sugar level in your blood, causing your eye lenses to swell and resulting in blurring vision, itchy and irritated eyes.[10] While your blood sugar levels will revert within 24 hours of drinking, the symptoms of Dry Eyes may not fade until a week after your alcohol intake.  

What is Dry January?

Dry January was founded by Alcohol Change UK in an effort to aid the UK population to give up or reduce their intake of alcohol for the entire month of January.[11]

There’s a variety of reasons people may choose to partake in the campaign – with 86% of participants saving money and 70% of participants claiming they experienced better sleep.[12]  

Joining Dry January and committing to not drinking for the month can drastically improve your Dry Eye symptoms in the long run and help you build better habits for your overall eye health.  

Damp January  

If completely abstaining from alcohol for January seems like too big of a challenge or you’re not ready to commit to such a drastic change, you can consider attempting damp January instead. It follows a more moderate approach to drinking, allowing the occasionally mindfully chosen drink.[13] In combination with extra hydration and other lifestyle changes, you should be able to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without triggering intense Dry Eye symptoms.  

How to Tackle Dry Eye Symptoms  

Alongside reducing alcohol consumption, there are many things you can do to reduce the severity of your symptoms and fight your Dry Eye Disease. 
 

• Getting enough sleep (around 7 to 8 hours a night is recommended). 

• Limiting screen time and taking breaks from screens. Using the 20:20:20 rule is ideal, especially when you work in an office.  

• Avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning.  

• Speaking to your doctor about prescription medicines that can help deal with serious Dry Eye Disease.  

• Implement a three-step daily routine to keep your eyes clean, hydrated, and cared for with products like Naviblef® Daily Care.  

• Soothe irritation, pain, and burning with eye drops like VisuXL® 

If you’d like to find more Dry Eye treatment options, explore VISUshop now.  

While Dry Eye Disease can be uncomfortable, you’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Get the help you need today and try Dry January.  

References

1. NHS, ‘Dry Eyes’, Last Accessed December 2024
2. The Clinic, ‘Surviving ‘Dry January’: How to Combat Dry Eyes in Winter’, Last Accessed December 2024
3. Smith-Jaynes, Ceri, ‘Dry January?’, Last Accessed December 2024
4. Cleveland Clinic, ‘Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
5. Casemor, Rachel K, Wolffsohn, James.S, Dutta, Debarun, ‘Dry Eye Clinical Practice Patterns of UK Optometrists’, 09/05/2023, Last Accessed December 2024
6. Magno, Morten Schjerven, et al, ‘The Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Dry Eye’ 16/03/2021, Last Accessed December 2024
7. Nidirect, ‘What happens When You Drink Alcohol’, Last Accessed December 2024
8. Healthline, ‘Ask the Expert: Dehydration and Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
9. Complete Family Eyecare, ‘Dry January – Alcohol and Your Vision’, 18/01/2024, Last Accessed December 2024
10. Dry Eye and Me ‘Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?’, Last Accessed December 2024
11. How Dry January Affects Your Eye Health’, 05/01/2018, Last Accessed February 2025
12. Alcohol Change UK, ‘Dry January’, Last Accessed December 2024 
13. Filson, Mackenzie, ‘Can’t Commit To Dry January? Try Damp January’, 06/01/2023, Last Accessed December 2024

Dry Eyes: The Unexpected Symptom of Menopause

When it comes to Dry Eye Disease, many people suffer from the condition but don’t know how to alleviate the symptoms. 

You don’t need to suffer in silence. There are many things you can do to avoid the tired, itchy feeling – including lifestyle changes. 

While eye drops and dedication can help improve the symptoms of the condition and repair damage to the eyes that can aggravate Dry Eye Disease, lifestyle changes can help you avoid triggers that cause your discomfort.  

One of the largest triggers of many conditions that you might not consider is alcohol. Alcohol has been linked to the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease and there’s evidence that a reduction of your alcohol consumption can actually help reduce symptoms of dry eye.  

This January, like the last few years, a national campaign in the UK is taking place to help reduce drinking and aid people in quitting for good.  

Here’s why you should consider taking on Dry January for your Dry Eye Disease.  

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is a condition in which the healthy tear film of your eyes becomes disrupted and damaged, causing symptoms such as:  

• Itching  
• Burning 
• A feeling of grit or sand in your eye  
• Excessive tear production  
• Blurred vision  
• Sensitivity to light  
• And many others[1]

It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.[2] When you don’t have adequate hydrating tears the eyelid scrapes over the desiccated surface instead of gliding over the smooth film of tears, causing irritation and discomfort.[3] It also risks damaging your eyes permanently.  

There are different forms of Dry Eye Disease including Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye where your eyes don’t produce enough tears, Evaporative Dry Eye where your tears evaporate too quickly, and Mixed Dry Eye where patients suffer from both.[4] 

There’s no definite cause of Dry Eye as it can be a symptom of many other illnesses, a side effect of medication, or can be related to environmental or lifestyle changes. However, it is very common with up to 32.1% of the UK population reporting the condition.[5]  

How Does Alcohol Affect Dry Eye?

Drinking alcohol has many effects on your body. Studies show a high correlation between alcohol use and symptomatic Dry Eye, especially in females.[6]  It can stimulate your appetite, widen blood vessels, impact your behaviour and brain function, and increase urine production.[7] This is part of the reason you can become thirsty and dehydrated when you consume alcohol.  

A lack of hydration has been linked to Dry Eye Disease with experts suggesting increased water intake for sufferers of Dry Eye Disease as drinking more water can help you produce a healthy volume of tears and ensure healthy lacrimal glands.[8]

Furthermore, alcohol use has been linked to premature ageing. Ageing has been known as a factor in the development of Dry Eye Disease and other eye conditions such as cataract formation and macular degeneration.[9]  

Alcohol intake can also increase the sugar level in your blood, causing your eye lenses to swell and resulting in blurring vision, itchy and irritated eyes.[10] While your blood sugar levels will revert within 24 hours of drinking, the symptoms of Dry Eyes may not fade until a week after your alcohol intake.  

What is Dry January?

Dry January was founded by Alcohol Change UK in an effort to aid the UK population to give up or reduce their intake of alcohol for the entire month of January.[11]

There’s a variety of reasons people may choose to partake in the campaign – with 86% of participants saving money and 70% of participants claiming they experienced better sleep.[12]  

Joining Dry January and committing to not drinking for the month can drastically improve your Dry Eye symptoms in the long run and help you build better habits for your overall eye health.  

Damp January  

If completely abstaining from alcohol for January seems like too big of a challenge or you’re not ready to commit to such a drastic change, you can consider attempting damp January instead. It follows a more moderate approach to drinking, allowing the occasionally mindfully chosen drink.[13] In combination with extra hydration and other lifestyle changes, you should be able to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without triggering intense Dry Eye symptoms.  

How to Tackle Dry Eye Symptoms  

Alongside reducing alcohol consumption, there are many things you can do to reduce the severity of your symptoms and fight your Dry Eye Disease. 
 

• Getting enough sleep (around 7 to 8 hours a night is recommended). 

• Limiting screen time and taking breaks from screens. Using the 20:20:20 rule is ideal, especially when you work in an office.  

• Avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning.  

• Speaking to your doctor about prescription medicines that can help deal with serious Dry Eye Disease.  

• Implement a three-step daily routine to keep your eyes clean, hydrated, and cared for with products like Naviblef® Daily Care.  

• Soothe irritation, pain, and burning with eye drops like VisuXL® 

If you’d like to find more Dry Eye treatment options, explore VISUshop now.  

While Dry Eye Disease can be uncomfortable, you’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Get the help you need today and try Dry January.  

References

1. NHS, ‘Dry Eyes’, Last Accessed December 2024
2. The Clinic, ‘Surviving ‘Dry January’: How to Combat Dry Eyes in Winter’, Last Accessed December 2024
3. Smith-Jaynes, Ceri, ‘Dry January?’, Last Accessed December 2024
4. Cleveland Clinic, ‘Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
5. Casemor, Rachel K, Wolffsohn, James.S, Dutta, Debarun, ‘Dry Eye Clinical Practice Patterns of UK Optometrists’, 09/05/2023, Last Accessed December 2024
6. Magno, Morten Schjerven, et al, ‘The Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Dry Eye’ 16/03/2021, Last Accessed December 2024
7. Nidirect, ‘What happens When You Drink Alcohol’, Last Accessed December 2024
8. Healthline, ‘Ask the Expert: Dehydration and Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
9. Complete Family Eyecare, ‘Dry January – Alcohol and Your Vision’, 18/01/2024, Last Accessed December 2024
10. Dry Eye and Me ‘Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?’, Last Accessed December 2024
11. How Dry January Affects Your Eye Health’, 05/01/2018, Last Accessed February 2025
12. Alcohol Change UK, ‘Dry January’, Last Accessed December 2024 
13. Filson, Mackenzie, ‘Can’t Commit To Dry January? Try Damp January’, 06/01/2023, Last Accessed December 2024

Dry Eye and Menopause Demystified 

When it comes to Dry Eye Disease, many people suffer from the condition but don’t know how to alleviate the symptoms. 

You don’t need to suffer in silence. There are many things you can do to avoid the tired, itchy feeling – including lifestyle changes. 

While eye drops and dedication can help improve the symptoms of the condition and repair damage to the eyes that can aggravate Dry Eye Disease, lifestyle changes can help you avoid triggers that cause your discomfort.  

One of the largest triggers of many conditions that you might not consider is alcohol. Alcohol has been linked to the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease and there’s evidence that a reduction of your alcohol consumption can actually help reduce symptoms of dry eye.  

This January, like the last few years, a national campaign in the UK is taking place to help reduce drinking and aid people in quitting for good.  

Here’s why you should consider taking on Dry January for your Dry Eye Disease.  

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is a condition in which the healthy tear film of your eyes becomes disrupted and damaged, causing symptoms such as:  

• Itching  
• Burning 
• A feeling of grit or sand in your eye  
• Excessive tear production  
• Blurred vision  
• Sensitivity to light  
• And many others[1]

It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.[2] When you don’t have adequate hydrating tears the eyelid scrapes over the desiccated surface instead of gliding over the smooth film of tears, causing irritation and discomfort.[3] It also risks damaging your eyes permanently.  

There are different forms of Dry Eye Disease including Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye where your eyes don’t produce enough tears, Evaporative Dry Eye where your tears evaporate too quickly, and Mixed Dry Eye where patients suffer from both.[4] 

There’s no definite cause of Dry Eye as it can be a symptom of many other illnesses, a side effect of medication, or can be related to environmental or lifestyle changes. However, it is very common with up to 32.1% of the UK population reporting the condition.[5]  

How Does Alcohol Affect Dry Eye?

Drinking alcohol has many effects on your body. Studies show a high correlation between alcohol use and symptomatic Dry Eye, especially in females.[6]  It can stimulate your appetite, widen blood vessels, impact your behaviour and brain function, and increase urine production.[7] This is part of the reason you can become thirsty and dehydrated when you consume alcohol.  

A lack of hydration has been linked to Dry Eye Disease with experts suggesting increased water intake for sufferers of Dry Eye Disease as drinking more water can help you produce a healthy volume of tears and ensure healthy lacrimal glands.[8]

Furthermore, alcohol use has been linked to premature ageing. Ageing has been known as a factor in the development of Dry Eye Disease and other eye conditions such as cataract formation and macular degeneration.[9]  

Alcohol intake can also increase the sugar level in your blood, causing your eye lenses to swell and resulting in blurring vision, itchy and irritated eyes.[10] While your blood sugar levels will revert within 24 hours of drinking, the symptoms of Dry Eyes may not fade until a week after your alcohol intake.  

What is Dry January?

Dry January was founded by Alcohol Change UK in an effort to aid the UK population to give up or reduce their intake of alcohol for the entire month of January.[11]

There’s a variety of reasons people may choose to partake in the campaign – with 86% of participants saving money and 70% of participants claiming they experienced better sleep.[12]  

Joining Dry January and committing to not drinking for the month can drastically improve your Dry Eye symptoms in the long run and help you build better habits for your overall eye health.  

Damp January  

If completely abstaining from alcohol for January seems like too big of a challenge or you’re not ready to commit to such a drastic change, you can consider attempting damp January instead. It follows a more moderate approach to drinking, allowing the occasionally mindfully chosen drink.[13] In combination with extra hydration and other lifestyle changes, you should be able to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without triggering intense Dry Eye symptoms.  

How to Tackle Dry Eye Symptoms  

Alongside reducing alcohol consumption, there are many things you can do to reduce the severity of your symptoms and fight your Dry Eye Disease. 
 

• Getting enough sleep (around 7 to 8 hours a night is recommended). 

• Limiting screen time and taking breaks from screens. Using the 20:20:20 rule is ideal, especially when you work in an office.  

• Avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning.  

• Speaking to your doctor about prescription medicines that can help deal with serious Dry Eye Disease.  

• Implement a three-step daily routine to keep your eyes clean, hydrated, and cared for with products like Naviblef® Daily Care.  

• Soothe irritation, pain, and burning with eye drops like VisuXL® 

If you’d like to find more Dry Eye treatment options, explore VISUshop now.  

While Dry Eye Disease can be uncomfortable, you’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Get the help you need today and try Dry January.  

References

1. NHS, ‘Dry Eyes’, Last Accessed December 2024
2. The Clinic, ‘Surviving ‘Dry January’: How to Combat Dry Eyes in Winter’, Last Accessed December 2024
3. Smith-Jaynes, Ceri, ‘Dry January?’, Last Accessed December 2024
4. Cleveland Clinic, ‘Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
5. Casemor, Rachel K, Wolffsohn, James.S, Dutta, Debarun, ‘Dry Eye Clinical Practice Patterns of UK Optometrists’, 09/05/2023, Last Accessed December 2024
6. Magno, Morten Schjerven, et al, ‘The Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Dry Eye’ 16/03/2021, Last Accessed December 2024
7. Nidirect, ‘What happens When You Drink Alcohol’, Last Accessed December 2024
8. Healthline, ‘Ask the Expert: Dehydration and Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
9. Complete Family Eyecare, ‘Dry January – Alcohol and Your Vision’, 18/01/2024, Last Accessed December 2024
10. Dry Eye and Me ‘Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?’, Last Accessed December 2024
11. How Dry January Affects Your Eye Health’, 05/01/2018, Last Accessed February 2025
12. Alcohol Change UK, ‘Dry January’, Last Accessed December 2024 
13. Filson, Mackenzie, ‘Can’t Commit To Dry January? Try Damp January’, 06/01/2023, Last Accessed December 2024

Dealing with Dry Eye and Menopause in the Office

When it comes to Dry Eye Disease, many people suffer from the condition but don’t know how to alleviate the symptoms. 

You don’t need to suffer in silence. There are many things you can do to avoid the tired, itchy feeling – including lifestyle changes. 

While eye drops and dedication can help improve the symptoms of the condition and repair damage to the eyes that can aggravate Dry Eye Disease, lifestyle changes can help you avoid triggers that cause your discomfort.  

One of the largest triggers of many conditions that you might not consider is alcohol. Alcohol has been linked to the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease and there’s evidence that a reduction of your alcohol consumption can actually help reduce symptoms of dry eye.  

This January, like the last few years, a national campaign in the UK is taking place to help reduce drinking and aid people in quitting for good.  

Here’s why you should consider taking on Dry January for your Dry Eye Disease.  

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is a condition in which the healthy tear film of your eyes becomes disrupted and damaged, causing symptoms such as:  

• Itching  
• Burning 
• A feeling of grit or sand in your eye  
• Excessive tear production  
• Blurred vision  
• Sensitivity to light  
• And many others[1]

It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.[2] When you don’t have adequate hydrating tears the eyelid scrapes over the desiccated surface instead of gliding over the smooth film of tears, causing irritation and discomfort.[3] It also risks damaging your eyes permanently.  

There are different forms of Dry Eye Disease including Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye where your eyes don’t produce enough tears, Evaporative Dry Eye where your tears evaporate too quickly, and Mixed Dry Eye where patients suffer from both.[4] 

There’s no definite cause of Dry Eye as it can be a symptom of many other illnesses, a side effect of medication, or can be related to environmental or lifestyle changes. However, it is very common with up to 32.1% of the UK population reporting the condition.[5]  

How Does Alcohol Affect Dry Eye?

Drinking alcohol has many effects on your body. Studies show a high correlation between alcohol use and symptomatic Dry Eye, especially in females.[6]  It can stimulate your appetite, widen blood vessels, impact your behaviour and brain function, and increase urine production.[7] This is part of the reason you can become thirsty and dehydrated when you consume alcohol.  

A lack of hydration has been linked to Dry Eye Disease with experts suggesting increased water intake for sufferers of Dry Eye Disease as drinking more water can help you produce a healthy volume of tears and ensure healthy lacrimal glands.[8]

Furthermore, alcohol use has been linked to premature ageing. Ageing has been known as a factor in the development of Dry Eye Disease and other eye conditions such as cataract formation and macular degeneration.[9]  

Alcohol intake can also increase the sugar level in your blood, causing your eye lenses to swell and resulting in blurring vision, itchy and irritated eyes.[10] While your blood sugar levels will revert within 24 hours of drinking, the symptoms of Dry Eyes may not fade until a week after your alcohol intake.  

What is Dry January?

Dry January was founded by Alcohol Change UK in an effort to aid the UK population to give up or reduce their intake of alcohol for the entire month of January.[11]

There’s a variety of reasons people may choose to partake in the campaign – with 86% of participants saving money and 70% of participants claiming they experienced better sleep.[12]  

Joining Dry January and committing to not drinking for the month can drastically improve your Dry Eye symptoms in the long run and help you build better habits for your overall eye health.  

Damp January  

If completely abstaining from alcohol for January seems like too big of a challenge or you’re not ready to commit to such a drastic change, you can consider attempting damp January instead. It follows a more moderate approach to drinking, allowing the occasionally mindfully chosen drink.[13] In combination with extra hydration and other lifestyle changes, you should be able to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without triggering intense Dry Eye symptoms.  

How to Tackle Dry Eye Symptoms  

Alongside reducing alcohol consumption, there are many things you can do to reduce the severity of your symptoms and fight your Dry Eye Disease. 
 

• Getting enough sleep (around 7 to 8 hours a night is recommended). 

• Limiting screen time and taking breaks from screens. Using the 20:20:20 rule is ideal, especially when you work in an office.  

• Avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning.  

• Speaking to your doctor about prescription medicines that can help deal with serious Dry Eye Disease.  

• Implement a three-step daily routine to keep your eyes clean, hydrated, and cared for with products like Naviblef® Daily Care.  

• Soothe irritation, pain, and burning with eye drops like VisuXL® 

If you’d like to find more Dry Eye treatment options, explore VISUshop now.  

While Dry Eye Disease can be uncomfortable, you’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Get the help you need today and try Dry January.  

References

1. NHS, ‘Dry Eyes’, Last Accessed December 2024
2. The Clinic, ‘Surviving ‘Dry January’: How to Combat Dry Eyes in Winter’, Last Accessed December 2024
3. Smith-Jaynes, Ceri, ‘Dry January?’, Last Accessed December 2024
4. Cleveland Clinic, ‘Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
5. Casemor, Rachel K, Wolffsohn, James.S, Dutta, Debarun, ‘Dry Eye Clinical Practice Patterns of UK Optometrists’, 09/05/2023, Last Accessed December 2024
6. Magno, Morten Schjerven, et al, ‘The Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Dry Eye’ 16/03/2021, Last Accessed December 2024
7. Nidirect, ‘What happens When You Drink Alcohol’, Last Accessed December 2024
8. Healthline, ‘Ask the Expert: Dehydration and Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
9. Complete Family Eyecare, ‘Dry January – Alcohol and Your Vision’, 18/01/2024, Last Accessed December 2024
10. Dry Eye and Me ‘Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?’, Last Accessed December 2024
11. How Dry January Affects Your Eye Health’, 05/01/2018, Last Accessed February 2025
12. Alcohol Change UK, ‘Dry January’, Last Accessed December 2024 
13. Filson, Mackenzie, ‘Can’t Commit To Dry January? Try Damp January’, 06/01/2023, Last Accessed December 2024

Unexpected Dry Eye Symptoms to Watch Out For

When it comes to Dry Eye Disease, many people suffer from the condition but don’t know how to alleviate the symptoms. 

You don’t need to suffer in silence. There are many things you can do to avoid the tired, itchy feeling – including lifestyle changes. 

While eye drops and dedication can help improve the symptoms of the condition and repair damage to the eyes that can aggravate Dry Eye Disease, lifestyle changes can help you avoid triggers that cause your discomfort.  

One of the largest triggers of many conditions that you might not consider is alcohol. Alcohol has been linked to the symptoms of Dry Eye Disease and there’s evidence that a reduction of your alcohol consumption can actually help reduce symptoms of dry eye.  

This January, like the last few years, a national campaign in the UK is taking place to help reduce drinking and aid people in quitting for good.  

Here’s why you should consider taking on Dry January for your Dry Eye Disease.  

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry Eye Disease is a condition in which the healthy tear film of your eyes becomes disrupted and damaged, causing symptoms such as:  

• Itching  
• Burning 
• A feeling of grit or sand in your eye  
• Excessive tear production  
• Blurred vision  
• Sensitivity to light  
• And many others[1]

It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.[2] When you don’t have adequate hydrating tears the eyelid scrapes over the desiccated surface instead of gliding over the smooth film of tears, causing irritation and discomfort.[3] It also risks damaging your eyes permanently.  

There are different forms of Dry Eye Disease including Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye where your eyes don’t produce enough tears, Evaporative Dry Eye where your tears evaporate too quickly, and Mixed Dry Eye where patients suffer from both.[4] 

There’s no definite cause of Dry Eye as it can be a symptom of many other illnesses, a side effect of medication, or can be related to environmental or lifestyle changes. However, it is very common with up to 32.1% of the UK population reporting the condition.[5]  

How Does Alcohol Affect Dry Eye?

Drinking alcohol has many effects on your body. Studies show a high correlation between alcohol use and symptomatic Dry Eye, especially in females.[6]  It can stimulate your appetite, widen blood vessels, impact your behaviour and brain function, and increase urine production.[7] This is part of the reason you can become thirsty and dehydrated when you consume alcohol.  

A lack of hydration has been linked to Dry Eye Disease with experts suggesting increased water intake for sufferers of Dry Eye Disease as drinking more water can help you produce a healthy volume of tears and ensure healthy lacrimal glands.[8]

Furthermore, alcohol use has been linked to premature ageing. Ageing has been known as a factor in the development of Dry Eye Disease and other eye conditions such as cataract formation and macular degeneration.[9]  

Alcohol intake can also increase the sugar level in your blood, causing your eye lenses to swell and resulting in blurring vision, itchy and irritated eyes.[10] While your blood sugar levels will revert within 24 hours of drinking, the symptoms of Dry Eyes may not fade until a week after your alcohol intake.  

What is Dry January?

Dry January was founded by Alcohol Change UK in an effort to aid the UK population to give up or reduce their intake of alcohol for the entire month of January.[11]

There’s a variety of reasons people may choose to partake in the campaign – with 86% of participants saving money and 70% of participants claiming they experienced better sleep.[12]  

Joining Dry January and committing to not drinking for the month can drastically improve your Dry Eye symptoms in the long run and help you build better habits for your overall eye health.  

Damp January  

If completely abstaining from alcohol for January seems like too big of a challenge or you’re not ready to commit to such a drastic change, you can consider attempting damp January instead. It follows a more moderate approach to drinking, allowing the occasionally mindfully chosen drink.[13] In combination with extra hydration and other lifestyle changes, you should be able to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without triggering intense Dry Eye symptoms.  

How to Tackle Dry Eye Symptoms  

Alongside reducing alcohol consumption, there are many things you can do to reduce the severity of your symptoms and fight your Dry Eye Disease. 
 

• Getting enough sleep (around 7 to 8 hours a night is recommended). 

• Limiting screen time and taking breaks from screens. Using the 20:20:20 rule is ideal, especially when you work in an office.  

• Avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning.  

• Speaking to your doctor about prescription medicines that can help deal with serious Dry Eye Disease.  

• Implement a three-step daily routine to keep your eyes clean, hydrated, and cared for with products like Naviblef® Daily Care.  

• Soothe irritation, pain, and burning with eye drops like VisuXL® 

If you’d like to find more Dry Eye treatment options, explore VISUshop now.  

While Dry Eye Disease can be uncomfortable, you’re not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Get the help you need today and try Dry January.  

References

1. NHS, ‘Dry Eyes’, Last Accessed December 2024
2. The Clinic, ‘Surviving ‘Dry January’: How to Combat Dry Eyes in Winter’, Last Accessed December 2024
3. Smith-Jaynes, Ceri, ‘Dry January?’, Last Accessed December 2024
4. Cleveland Clinic, ‘Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
5. Casemor, Rachel K, Wolffsohn, James.S, Dutta, Debarun, ‘Dry Eye Clinical Practice Patterns of UK Optometrists’, 09/05/2023, Last Accessed December 2024
6. Magno, Morten Schjerven, et al, ‘The Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Dry Eye’ 16/03/2021, Last Accessed December 2024
7. Nidirect, ‘What happens When You Drink Alcohol’, Last Accessed December 2024
8. Healthline, ‘Ask the Expert: Dehydration and Dry Eye’, Last Accessed December 2024
9. Complete Family Eyecare, ‘Dry January – Alcohol and Your Vision’, 18/01/2024, Last Accessed December 2024
10. Dry Eye and Me ‘Is Drinking Alcohol Bad For Your Eyes?’, Last Accessed December 2024
11. How Dry January Affects Your Eye Health’, 05/01/2018, Last Accessed February 2025
12. Alcohol Change UK, ‘Dry January’, Last Accessed December 2024 
13. Filson, Mackenzie, ‘Can’t Commit To Dry January? Try Damp January’, 06/01/2023, Last Accessed December 2024

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.