Dec 2021: Please continue to wear masks or face coverings whilst in store – Find out more
Dec 2021: Please continue to wear masks or face coverings whilst in store – Find out more
Tears are a complex combination of water, oils, and lipids, helping to lubricate the eye, wash away debris, stabilise vision, and protect against infection. Every time we blink, our tears cover the front surface of our eye, known as the cornea, keeping it hydrated and healthy. When the eyes don’t produce enough tear fluid, when the quality of the tear fluid produced is poor, or when the tear fluid evaporates too quickly, we can get dry or scratchy eyes, and our eyes can become irritated and inflamed.
Dry eyes are usually harmless, although they can result in increased sensitivity and burning in the eyes. If inflammation or infection is suspected, the treatment depends on the cause, the area of infection in the eye, and the degree of the infection. If you have any worries that you may have dry eyes, blurry vision, or sore eyes, you should visit an optometrist, as you may need eye drops with antibiotics.
There are several symptoms of dry eyes, which can include:
Dry eyes can be caused by several factors:
Tears are generated by glands around the eye and eyelids. With age, the tear production decreases. Dry eyes can also be a side effect of steroids and other medication you take to treat medical conditions. Symptoms of dry eyes develop when the tear amount levels decrease or the tears evaporate quickly. Environmental changes such as windy or dry climates may lead to dry eye conditions if the eye is not nourished appropriately.
Any activity which requires a lot of concentration, such as driving long distances or continuous exposure to screens, may cause dry sore eyes.
Optometrists have tests to detect and monitor dry eyes. If necessary, an ophthalmologist is recommended. We recommend an eye examination at least every two years, regardless of whether you have symptoms or established eye problems. Severe cases may be referred to an ophthalmologist for further testing.
What you may expect during an examination:
Our online eye health test is a great way to identify potential issues or just confirm that everything is actually ok. Take this two minute test and if you’re concerned in any way, you can book an eye test appointment or call and speak to our qualified optical people.
Opening times Mon-Fri: 9am – 5:30pm
Saturday: 9am – 5pm
Sunday: Closed
12 Market Place, Nuneaton, CV11 4EE
COVID-19 (19th July 2021): We continue to observe all relevant guidelines with your health and safety and that of our team’s as our top priority.
