Dry Eye Conditions
Dry eye symptoms are very common, often increase with age, and affect around 2 million people in the UK – usually more women than men.
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
Why It Matters / Prevalence & Risk Groups
Dry eye affects millions of people in the UK and is one of the most common reasons for visiting an eye specialist.
Risk factors overview
Dry eye can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing symptoms. Ageing, particularly if you are over 50, naturally reduces tear production; hormonal changes, including menopause are a well-known trigger; and long hours on digital screens can decrease blinking, leading to faster tear evaporation.
Environmental elements such as air-conditioning, central heating and windy conditions also play a role. Certain medications, autoimmune conditions, and previous eye surgery can further contribute. Understanding your individual risk factors can help guide early diagnosis and effective treatment.
Our Centres
What Are Dry Eye Symptoms?
Persistently gritty
A constant sensation of sand or grit in the eyes, often worsening throughout the day.
Itchy
Irritation or itchiness that makes you want to rub your eyes, especially in dry or windy environments.
Burning
A burning or stinging feeling caused by an unstable tear film or inflammation on the eye's surface.
Pain
Discomfort or soreness that can range from mild irritation to sharper, more persistent pain.
Tired eyes
Eyes that feel heavy or fatigued, particularly after prolonged screen use, reading or concentrating.
These dry eye symptoms often intensify throughout the day, especially after long periods of screen use or exposure to air-conditioning or wind. Some people may also notice stringy mucus around the eyes, a sign that the tear film is unstable.
While many patients recognise their own symptoms, it’s important to be aware that severe or untreated dry eye can increase the risk of corneal infection, scarring, or ulceration. These complications can lead to lasting vision problems, which is why seeking prompt assessment and specialist care is essential if your symptoms are worsening, persistent, or affecting daily comfort.
What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye disease is typically caused by a breakdown in one of the three core systems that keep the tear film stable and healthy.
1
Reduced Tear Production (Aqueous-deficient dry eye)
Common reasons include ageing, hormonal changes (especially in women), certain medications, dehydration, autoimmune or systemic conditions. Without enough of the watery (aqueous) layer, the eye cannot stay properly lubricated.
2
Increased Tear Evaporation (Evaporative dry eye)
This happens when the tears evaporate too quickly, usually because the lipid (oil) layer is not functioning properly. Common reasons include Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), long screen use, dry or heated environments and contact lens use. When oils are poor or missing, the tear film breaks up quickly and the eye feels dry, gritty and irritated.
3
Poor Tear Film Quality or Instability
Even if enough tears are produced, the tear film may not spread or stay on the eye properly. This happens when the mucin layer is disrupted or when the ocular surface s unhealthy. Common reasons include reduced or damaged goblet cells, inflammation of the eye surface, allergies or chronic irritation and eyelid problems. Poor tear quality leads to fluctuationg vision, dryness, blurred patches and discomfort.
Additional risk factors
Beyond ageing, hormones, and screen use, several lifestyle and environmental factors can increase the likelihood of developing dry eye. These include low-humidity environments (air-conditioning, heating, air travel), smoking, certain medications such as antihistamines or antidepressants, and medical conditions including autoimmune disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease).
Contact lens wear, especially for long hours, can also destabilise the tear film. Understanding these triggers can help patients and clinicians tailor treatment and prevent worsening symptoms.
Post-surgery/laser note
Dry eye symptoms can temporarily worsen after procedures such as cataract surgery, laser eye surgery, or eyelid operations. This is usually due to temporary disruption of the tear film, mild inflammation, or nerve healing on the surface of the eye.
In most cases, symptoms improve as the eye recovers, but patients with pre-existing dry eye may experience more noticeable discomfort. Pre-operative assessment and tailored aftercare at Centre for Sight ensure that dryness is identified early and managed effectively throughout your recovery.
Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Schedule a comprehensive eye examination to determine your suitability for dry eye treatment.
Diagnosis & Assessment
At Centre for Sight, understanding the cause of your dry eye begins with a consultant-led assessment, supported by advanced imaging to precisely evaluate your tears, ocular surface and meibomian gland function.
1
How We Assess Your Vision
We use a detailed, step-by-step approach to identify the root cause of your symptoms; whether it’s insufficient tear production, rapid evaporation, gland dysfunction, or inflammation.
What to Expect
Consultant-led examination
Tear film & corneal imaging
Meibomian gland evaluation
Review of symptoms & lifestyle
2
Tests & Scans You May Have
Our dry eye assessment uses state-of-the-art equipment to build a complete picture of how your tears are produced, how long they last, and how healthy the ocular surface is.
Duration: 60-90 minutes
What to Expect
Comfortable, non-invasive tests
Clear explanation of results
Identification of root causes
Recommended next steps
3
What Happens at Your First Appointment
Your first visit is designed to be thorough yet comfortable, giving you clear answers and a personalised plan.
Duration: 60-90 minutes
What to Expect
Warm welcome & registration
Thorough but comfortable tests
Same-day insights into your condition
Tailored management plan
What are the Treatments for Eye Dryness?
Dry eye syndrome can be managed with a range of effective treatments, tailored to the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Common options include lubricating eye drops to restore moisture and reduce irritation, as well as advanced in-clinic procedures such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy and Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT), which target inflammation and improve the function of the meibomian glands. In addition to these treatments, dietary supplementation with Omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to support tear film stability and reduce ocular surface inflammation, these are available to purchase at Centre for Sight. The most appropriate treatment approach will depend on the specific type of dry eye and should be determined through a comprehensive assessment by an ophthalmologist with expertise in corneal and ocular surface disorders.
Visit our Dry Eye Treatments page to find out more.
Lifestyle and self-care
Simple daily measures such as reducing screen strain, improving blink habits, managing the environment, and using warm compresses can help support the tear film and ease symptoms.
Eye-drops & prescription therapies
From preservative-free lubricants to anti-inflammatory medications and targeted prescription treatments, drops can improve comfort, reduce inflammation, and stabilise the ocular surface.
Clinic-based treatments
Specialist therapies, including Meibomian gland expression, IPL, Low Light Laser Therapy, punctal plugs and in-clinic lid hygiene procedures, can address the root causes of evaporative and inflammatory dry eye.
Why Choose Centre for Sight
Centre for Sight is one of the UK’s most established and pioneering eye care providers, with over 30 years of experience and multiple national firsts. We were the first clinic in the UK to perform LASIK, and among the earliest to introduce femtosecond laser technology for both laser eye surgery and cataract procedures. Our consultants have collectively performed over 35,000 cataract surgeries, delivering exceptional outcomes backed by audited results and world-class surgical expertise. You will benefit from fully consultant-led care, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalised treatment planning, all supported by our reputation as a trusted centre where ophthalmologists from around the world come to observe and train. At Centre for Sight, innovation, safety, and excellence are built into every step of your journey.
Patient Success Stories
Such great care and service here. I had a household accident last week and came to get my eye looked at, which they went out of their way to accomodate on the same morning of ringing. The team is amazing, the admin, nurses, and consultant were really kind and caring. The follow up care has also been great with calls after a week to check how I’m getting on. Everyone has been so warm and friendly, a huge heartfelt thank you!
Centre For Sight
sana ali
The best decision ever! My eye treatment at Centre for Sight has changed my life and enhanced my confidence. Having trifocal lenses implanted by Mr Sheraz Daya has restored my eyesight and I no longer need to use any lenses for reading, driving or any other activities.
From my first encounter with Mr Daya and his team at Centre for Sight, I felt most reassured that I was getting a very professional opinion and treatment. The day of the procedure was made much easier by the comforting support provided to me by Dr Espinosa whilst Mr Daya was performing my eye surgery. Overall, a fantastic experience and a great result.
Centre For Sight
Manuel Oyarzabal
Really proffesional
The professionalism I experienced right the way through the process was just brilliant. With all the testing prior to surgery, I felt very sure that I was doing the right thing. Saj Khan was not only very proffesional, he was also quite funny, which put you at ease.
Centre For Sight
Nigel Guthrie
A heartfelt thank you also to his team: Adora and Teresa, who have supported me from my very first appointment and always make me feel welcome, and Katie, Debra and Alex at Grinstead, who cared for me during surgery and helped me through one of the most anxious times of my life.
I cannot recommend Dr Daya and his team enough. For anyone who is unsure or afraid of taking this step — please know this really can change your life.
Centre For Sight
Rikesh Patel
Excellent Result
Initial tests were very thorough and the recommendations clearly set out. The operation itself was quick and painless. All the staff were friendly and professional. The aftercare was faultless.
Centre For Sight
Derek
Our Centres
London Centre
Centre for Sight London, located at 14 Queen Anne St, Suite 2, in the prestigious Harley Street area, offers consultations, follow-up care, and YAG laser procedures.
Sussex Centre
Hazelden Place, Turners Hill Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 4RH
Arguably the most modern private eye hospital in the UK, our hospital in Sussex offers Laser Vision Correction, Corneal Transplants, Stem Cell Surgery and more.
Surrey Centre
48 High Street, Oxshott, Surrey, KT22 0JR
Centre for Sight London, located at 14 Queen Anne St, Suite 2, in the prestigious Harley Street area, offers consultations, follow-up care, and YAG laser procedures.
Latest News
Explore our most recent updates, expert insights and news from across our clinics.
frequently asked questions
Find answers to the most common questions about dry eye, it’s causes and how it can be treated.
How is dry eye diagnosed?
Dry eye is diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam, where your eye doctor assesses tear production, tear quality, and tear film stability. Tests may include measuring tear quantity, evaluating how quickly tears evaporate, and examining the eyelids and eye surface for signs of inflammation or gland dysfunction.
What are the treatment options for dry eye?
Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause. Common approaches include artificial tears and lubricating gels, warm compresses and lid hygiene to improve oil gland function, prescription anti‑inflammatory drops, punctal plugs to conserve tears, and advanced therapies like thermal pulsation or intense pulsed light (IPL) for meibomian gland dysfunction. Lifestyle changes such as taking breaks during screen time and using humidifiers can also help.
Can dry eye be prevented or managed at home?
Yes many cases can be improved with simple lifestyle measures. Regularly blinking during screen use, avoiding direct air blowing in your eyes, using a humidifier in dry environments, protecting your eyes from wind and sun, quitting smoking, ensuring good eyelid hygiene and also introducing our Omega 3 Supplement to your daily routine, can significantly reduce symptoms. However, persistent or severe dry eye should be evaluated by an eye care professional.
How long does dry eye last?
The duration of dry eye varies depending on the underlying cause. Some cases are temporary, triggered by environmental factors like wind or prolonged screen use, while chronic dry eye may persist for months or years if related to ageing, autoimmune conditions, or meibomian gland dysfunction. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce long-term discomfort.
Are certain people more at risk of dry eye?
Dry eye can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk. These include people over 50, women (especially post-menopause), contact lens wearers, people taking medications like antihistamines or antidepressants, and those with autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis. More information about this disease is available on the Sjögren’s Foundation Website. Environmental exposure to wind, air-conditioning, or screen use also increases risk.
Have Questions?
Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have about dry eye conditions.
