Dry Eye Syndrome – Top Questions Patients Ask.

Dry, gritty, or uncomfortable eyes are among the most common reasons people visit an eye specialist in London. From office workers spending hours on screens to those affected by allergies, contact lenses, or ageing, Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) affects thousands across the city every year.

Here we answer some of the top questions patients in London ask about dry eye — from symptoms to treatments available both on the NHS and privately.

1. What exactly is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome (also called Ocular Surface Disease) occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for eye health — they keep the surface moist, smooth, and free from infection.

Common causes include:

• Prolonged screen use (reduced blinking)

• Ageing and hormonal changes (especially in women)

• Contact lens wear

• Blepharitis or Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (blocked oil glands)

• Certain medications or autoimmune conditions

• Environmental factors (air conditioning, pollution, or wind)

2. What are the main symptoms?

Patients often describe:

• Grittiness, burning, or stinging sensation

• Watery eyes (a reflex reaction to dryness)

• Redness and tired eyes

• Blurred vision that improves with blinking

• Discomfort when reading or using screens

If left untreated, severe dryness can damage the cornea and affect vision quality.

3. How is Dry Eye diagnosed?

In London clinics, your ophthalmologist or optometrist may perform:

• Tear film assessment: measuring tear breakup time

• Fluorescein dye test: highlighting dry areas on the eye

• Meibomian gland evaluation: checking for blockages in the eyelid oil glands

• Ocular surface imaging: advanced scans such as LipiView or Keratograph

These help tailor treatment to the specific cause — whether it’s insufficient tear production, poor tear quality, or inflammation.

4. What treatments are available?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity. Options include:

Conventional therapies

• Artificial tears and gels: lubricating drops used several times a day

• Warm compresses and lid hygiene: to unblock glands and improve oil flow

• Omega-3 supplements: to enhance tear quality

• Anti-inflammatory drops: e.g. ciclosporin (Ikervis), lifitegrast, or short courses of steroid drops

Advanced or off-licence treatments

London eye specialists now offer several evidence-based treatments for persistent cases:

• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) – reduces inflammation and restores gland function

• LipiFlow – a heat and massage therapy for Meibomian gland dysfunction

• BlephEx – deep cleaning of eyelid margins to remove debris and biofilm

• Topical immunomodulators – such as tacrolimus (Protopic) or pimecrolimus (Elidel)

• Ivermectin or Soolantra cream – for Demodex-related blepharitis

Your ophthalmologist can advise which combination best suits your needs.

5. Can Dry Eye be cured?

While Dry Eye Syndrome is usually a chronic condition, symptoms can be well-controlled with consistent management. Most patients achieve excellent comfort and visual stability once the underlying cause is addressed.

Regular follow-ups and adherence to your eye care routine are key.

6. What can I do at home to help?

Simple lifestyle changes make a big difference:

• Take screen breaks every 20 minutes

• Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3

• Use a humidifier or avoid direct air-conditioning

• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect against wind

• Avoid rubbing your eyes

7. When should I see a specialist in London?

You should seek professional advice if:

• Your eyes are persistently uncomfortable despite using drops

• Vision fluctuates or blurs frequently

• You have eyelid inflammation or recurrent infections

• You’ve tried over-the-counter products without relief

An eye specialist can perform detailed testing, identify the exact cause, and offer advanced therapies not available on the high street.

8. How much does Dry Eye treatment cost in London?

Basic assessments may be available on the NHS, particularly if associated with another eye condition.Private consultations typically start from £150–£250, with specialist treatments (such as IPL or LipiFlow) ranging from £250–£600 per session, depending on the clinic and technology used.

Many patients combine NHS care for medical management with private options for advanced therapies.

9. Can Dry Eye affect my vision long-term?

In most cases, no — not if it’s managed appropriately. However, chronic untreated dryness can lead to corneal damage or recurrent infections. Early diagnosis and consistent care are essential to protect long-term vision and comfort.

10. What’s the outlook for Dry Eye patients in London?

With modern diagnostic tools and advanced therapies now widely available across London eye clinics, Dry Eye Syndrome can be managed far more effectively than ever before.Patients who follow an individualised treatment plan often report a significant improvement in comfort, clarity, and quality of life.

In summary

Dry Eye Syndrome is common, uncomfortable, and often misunderstood — but it’s also highly treatable. If you’re experiencing persistent eye discomfort, it’s worth booking an assessment with a Consultant Ophthalmologist specialising in Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Disease.