Dry Eye & Blepharitis
Why Your Eyes Feel Irritated, Gritty, or Uncomfortable
Ocular surface disease refers to conditions that affect the front surface of the eye, including the tear film, cornea, and eyelids. The most common causes are dry eye syndrome and blepharitis, which often occur together. While these conditions are not usually sight-threatening, they can cause ongoing discomfort, irritation, and fluctuating vision that affects daily life.
Symptoms
You may experience:
- Grittiness or a foreign body sensation
- Burning or irritation
- Redness of the eyes
- Intermittent blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery eyes despite feeling dry
With blepharitis, you may also notice:
- Red or inflamed eyelids
- Crusting along the lash line, especially in the morning
- Sore or irritated eyelids
Many patients are surprised that watery eyes can actually be a sign of dryness.
Causes / Risk Factors
Dry eye and blepharitis can be caused by a combination of factors:
- Age-related changes in tear production
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (oil gland blockage)
- Screen use and reduced blinking
- Environmental factors such as air conditioning or wind
- Skin conditions or inflammation of the eyelids
- Autoimmune conditions
These conditions are very common and often develop gradually.
When to Seek Help
It is a good idea to have your eyes assessed if:
- Your eyes feel persistently dry, irritated, or uncomfortable
- Your vision fluctuates, especially during reading or screen use
- Over-the-counter drops are not providing relief
- Skin conditions or inflammation of the eyelids
An assessment helps identify the cause and guide the right treatment.
How It Is Diagnosed
At IOES, diagnosis involves a detailed and comfortable examination of the ocular surface.
This may include:
- Assessment of the tear film
- Examination of the eyelids and oil glands
- Evaluation of the corneal surface
- Autoimmune conditions
We will explain clearly what is causing your symptoms and how best to manage them.
What Happens Next
Ocular surface disease is typically managed rather than cured.
Some patients require simple treatments, while others benefit from a more structured care plan.
The goal is to relieve symptoms, improve comfort, and support long-term eye health.
Light-Touch Treatment Overview
Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and may include:
- Lubricating eye drops or gels
- Lid hygiene routines
- Managing eyelid inflammation
- Advanced treatments in more persistent cases
Learn more about dry eye treatment and how it works.
Book Consultation
If your eyes are uncomfortable, irritated, or affecting your daily life, the next step is to get clarity. Book an eye assessment and find out what is causing your symptoms.
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