Dry Eye & Blepharitis
Eyes can be affected by many systemic diseases and a holistic approach is very important in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. We have included below some information you may find helpful; if you have questions about any other issues please get in touch.
Blepharitis
• Red, itchy eyelid margins.
• Eye irritation.
• Watering.
• Cysts (chalazia) and styes.
• Eyelash loss and irregularity of the eyelid margin contour.​
The inflammation may be centred around the eyelid skin or oil (Meibomian) glands which produce oil to slow down evaporation of the tear film and prevent dry eye.​
Treatment:​ If you wear cosmetics, ensure you cleanse of every trace with a gentle cleanser (iS Clinical cleansers are ideal for this purpose).Use warm damp compresses every day (twice daily if symptoms are particularly severe) to massage the eyelid margins. This will clean away debris from the lash roots and to help the Meibomian glands to empty, reducing the risk of obstruction and cyst formation. This is a healthy routine that will help keep your eyelids and the ocular surface healthy and comfortable.
​Should I see a doctor about my blepharitis? ​If the measures above fail to alleviate symptoms or if the changes are localised to only one eyelid or area on the lid, it is advisable to see an Ophthalmologist.
They are able to prescribe topical +/- oral treatment for more severe cases and to exclude other conditions which may mimic blepharitis.​
Dry Eye
• Advancing age: Tear production and blink rate slow down over time.
• Medications: e.g. certain antidepressants, antihistamines.
• Autoimmune diseases.
• Meibomian Gland Disease: often associated with rosacea.
• Central heating/air conditioning.
• Reduced blink: Neurological disorders.
• Visual attention: Reading and computer work reduce blink rate and increase tear evaporation.
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Treatment: Unfortunately, it is not usually possible to cure dry eye, but management or elimination may help. The good news is that for the vast majority of sufferers relief can be found with simple measures.
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Topical lubricating eye drops and/or warm massage of the eyelids can improve the quality and quantity of the tear film. Lubricant drops are widely available over the counter and are effective and safe. Lubricant ointments are also available for night-time use. They have a thicker consistency so blur the vision. If using with other drops (e.g those prescribed for glaucoma) the ointment should be the last thing to be instilled before bed.
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For contact lens wearers and those who require drops more frequently than 4 times daily, a non-preserved drop is recommended. Benzalkonium Chloride, a commonly used preservative, is not compatible with contact lenses and is toxic to the ocular surface in doses which exceed this.
Advanced Dry Eye Assessment
We now offer the OS1000 Corneal Topography and Dry Eye Assessment at our Worcester clinic — a state-of-the-art diagnostic tool that allows for faster, more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for a range of common but often underdiagnosed eye conditions.
This advanced system combines two essential tests in one non-invasive device: corneal topography, which maps the surface of the eye to detect irregularities; and a comprehensive dry eye assessment, which evaluates the quality and stability of your tear film and overall surface health. It means that, in just one appointment, we can carry out a full assessment, helping us reach a diagnosis quickly, comfortably and with pinpoint accuracy.
Why It Matters
Dry Eye Disease affects millions of people and is one of the most frequent complaints seen in eye care clinics. It can cause irritation, blurred vision, light sensitivity and a constant gritty feeling that affects your quality of life. Yet traditional tests for dry eyes can be time-consuming, uncomfortable and often lead to inconsistent results.
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The OS1000 platform uses non-invasive, evidence-based technology to give us objective and reproducible results. This means we can detect issues early and recommend the most effective treatment plan straight away.
How Patients Benefit
If you’ve been living with the discomfort of dry eyes, or you’ve been told you may need further investigation for corneal irregularities, we can assess your eye health in greater detail than ever before.​
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Faster diagnosis with rapid image capture and automatic analysis
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Non-invasive procedure.
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Accurate results that eliminate guesswork with advanced imaging and objective data.
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Results allow us to design a plan to target your symptoms
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Streamlined visits with two tests in one appointment.​
A Clearer Picture
Your eyes are unique and so are the challenges they face. From subtle changes in corneal shape to early signs of dry eye disease, the OS1000 gives us a complete, in-depth view of your ocular surface in just minutes.
By capturing high-resolution, 3D images and analysing tear film quality, this technology helps us detect even the earliest signs of concern, long before symptoms become disruptive. This means we can intervene earlier and monitor your progress over time, making informed decisions to keep your eyes healthy and your vision sharp for years to come.
Book Your Assessment At Our Worcester Clinic
To find out more or to book your OS1000 Corneal Topography and Dry Eye Assessment, contact our Worcester clinic today. No referral is needed — simply get in touch.
