Have you ever felt like there is sand in your eyes, or noticed your eyes are itchy or red or watery for no good reason – then you might be experiencing something that is very common – dry eye syndrome! Dry eyes are more common than ever whether it’s due from more screentime, air-conditioned environments, or simply part of the aging process.
In this blog we will look at what are dry eyes, and the common symptoms of this condition and the treatment options available. You can find more information and help in the ‘eye’ section on inhousepharmacy.
What are Dry Eyes?
‘Dry eyes’ isn’t just about the lack of tears – it is more about your eyes not being properly lubricated which can happen if your eyes don’t produce enough tears, if they evaporate too quickly, or if the quality of tears is poor (missing important layers that keep the eye surface moist).
How the Tear Film Works
The tear film is a thin, multi-layered coating that spreads across the surface of your eye every time you blink. It is made up of three layers, each with its own purpose:
- Outer layer: Lipid (oil) layer which prevents tears from evaporating too quickly and keeps the surface of the eye lubricated and smooth.
- Middle layer: Aqueous (water) layer which provides moisture, oxygen, and nutrients to the eye. It also washes away debris and helps protect against infection.
- Inner layer: Mucin layer which helps the watery layer spread evenly over the eye and ensures tears ‘stick’ to the eye’s surface.
Healthy tears keep your eyes smooth, hydrated, and protected. If one layer is out of balance, your eyes can feel dry or irritated.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
- Environmental factors: wind, air conditioning, dry climates, digital eye strain.
- Medical conditions: ageing, hormonal changes (especially post-menopause), autoimmune conditions (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis).
- Medications: antihistamines, antidepressants, acne treatments, blood pressure medicines.
- Lifestyle factors: prolonged screen use, contact lens wear, smoking.
Symptoms of Dry Eyes
- Burning, stinging, or gritty sensation
- Redness
- Excessive tearing (paradoxical response)
- Blurry vision that improves with blinking
- Sensitivity to light
Relief and Prevention Strategies
Lifestyle modifications:
- Take screen breaks (20-20-20 rule)
- Use humidifiers in dry environments
- Stay hydrated
- Protect eyes from wind/sun (sunglasses)
When to see a doctor:
Persistent or severe symptoms, or sudden vision changes.
Treatment Options for Dry Eyes
Cyclomune Eye Drops 0.05% (Cyclosporine)
Cyclomune Eye Drops 0.05% are specially formulated to treat dry eye disease that has not improved with tear substitutes alone. This condition, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when inflammation reduces natural tear production, leaving the eye surface unprotected. Cyclomune contains cyclosporine, an immunomodulator that helps reduce local inflammation by inhibiting certain inflammatory chemicals (cytokines) in the eye. By calming inflammation, Cyclomune supports the eye in resuming normal tear production, helping to protect and lubricate the cornea. These drops can be used alongside artificial tears and are typically applied twice daily. Common side effects include burning, redness, and watery eyes. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid use if you have allergies to cyclosporine, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an active eye infection.
Lifanta Eye Drops 0.05% (Lifitegrast)
Lifanta Eye Drops 0.05% are designed to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) in adults over 17. The active ingredient, lifitegrast, works by blocking the interaction between LFA-1 (a protein on T cells) and ICAM-1 (an adhesion molecule on eye surface cells), which helps reduce T-cell mediated inflammation and improves tear film stability. This leads to less irritation, redness, and better protection of the ocular surface. Lifanta is typically used twice daily and can take several weeks to show noticeable improvement. Common side effects include blurred vision, eye discomfort, and irritation. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and avoid use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 17 years old.
Choosing the Best Eye Drops for You
Selecting the right eye drops depends on your symptoms, lifestyle, and any sensitivities you may have. Preservative-free drops are ideal for those with sensitive eyes or who need to use drops frequently, as they reduce the risk of irritation from preservatives. Preserved options may be suitable for occasional use and are often more cost-effective.
Gel drops provide longer-lasting relief and are helpful for severe dryness, especially overnight, but may cause temporary blurred vision. Liquid drops are easier to use during the day and offer quick relief for mild to moderate symptoms.
Consider using gel drops at night and liquid drops during the day for round-the-clock comfort. Always follow proper instillation techniques: wash your hands, avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any surface, and wait several minutes between different types of drops to prevent dilution or contamination.
If you’re unsure which product is best for you, consult your eye care professional or explore our curated list of best-selling dry eye relief products on InHousePharmacy.
Conclusion
Dry eyes are not just an annoyance—they can cause an impact on your vision, comfort and quality of life. By combining lifestyle changes with the right type of eye drops, many people find relief. However, if symptoms persist you will need to see your Eye doctor or Health Professional.
