Dry Eye Disease: A Family Affair

BY DR LIZ CUBIS MUTOKOYI, DRY EYE SOLUTION

Dry Eye Disease (DED) presents many symptoms that impact daily life. Sufferers often experience a gritty or burning sensation, sore or tired eyes, redness, excessive tearing, and sensitivity to light. Vision may become blurred, and tasks requiring visual focus, such as reading or driving, may become challenging. These symptoms worsen with time, potentially leading to corneal damage and vision impairment if left untreated.

Children affected by DED will find it difficult to concentrate on their studies and may experience increased eye fatigue, especially if they are spending long hours on screens or engaging in near–focused activities like reading or writing. Eye fatigue can further impair their ability to stay attentive in class and retain information. This can lead to decreased productivity, difficulty reading or completing assignments, and overall academic performance. Children may have difficulty articulating their symptoms or may not fully understand what they are experiencing.

Dry Eye Disease is not a passing discomfort but rather a chronic progressive condition that intensifies over time without proper intervention. As the eyes struggle to produce adequate tears or maintain a healthy tear film, the cornea becomes more vulnerable to external irritants. The condition’s insidious nature underscores the urgency of early detection and treatment to prevent long–term damage.

Several factors contribute to the development of Dry Eye Disease, and they affect all generations across the family spectrum. Digital screen use, particularly in this technology–driven era, disrupts natural blinking patterns, leading to increased tear evaporation. Age is another crucial factor, as tear production diminishes over time. Menopause, certain medications, rosacea, cataract or laser surgery are also significant causes.

Environmental factors like dry air, pollution, and allergens can exacerbate symptoms, while an unhealthy diet and systemic inflammation will further disrupt the delicate balance of the tear film. 60% of people with allergies will have DED.

For families seeking a safe and effective treatment option, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) by Lumenis, has emerged as a ground breaking therapy approved by both the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Lumenis IPL harnesses the power of gentle light pulses to stimulate the Meibomian glands in the eyelids, which produce essential oils for tear film stability. By improving gland function, IPL offers lasting relief from Dry Eye symptoms and prevents disease progression.

While artificial tears provide temporary relief, prolonged reliance on them can cause corneal surface damage and further exacerbate Dry Eye Disease. Instead of masking the symptoms, it is crucial to address the underlying causes through specialised treatments that target the root of the problem.

To protect the ocular health of all family members, it is essential to consult an expert Dry Eye Optometrist who specialises in IPL treatment. These professionals possess the knowledge and specialised tools to diagnose the condition accurately and prescribe tailored treatment plans. Early intervention can help alleviate symptoms, prevent long term damage, and improve overall quality of life for anyone suffering with Dry Eye.

Dry Eye Disease silently affects individuals of all ages within families, disrupting their daily lives and potentially causing irreversible damage. Recognising the symptoms and understanding the causes allow us to address this chronic progressive condition effectively. By seeking expert care from a Dry Eye specialist Optometrist and exploring the only FDA & TGA approved treatment for Dry Eye Disease – Lumenis IPL, both children and adults can reclaim healthy eyes and restore the joy of clear vision. It’s important to take action to protect our ocular health and ensure a brighter future for all generations.

Dry Eye Solution specialises in Dry Eye Disease diagnosis and treatment, using the only FDA & TGA approved IPL devices on the Central Coast and North Shore. Clinics are based at Erina and Chatswood. Call 4312 4273 or 9188 7763 to book an appointment or visit www.dryeyesolution.com.au