Dry eyes are a common codition in general practice. They can be misdiagnosed as infection of the eye . It is usual for both eyes to be affected at the same time.

What are the symptoms?

Feeling dry in the eyes, burning or stinging, itching, scratchy or gritty , something in the eyes, mucous discharge, redness. It is quite often confused with cinjunctivitis.

Who gets dry eyes?

It is most common in the elderly and usually comes on in middle age. There is a tendency to produce fewer tears as we get older . Other conditions that could lead to dry eyes include : arthritis, menopause, blood pressure tablets, adverse weather or air conditioning.

What is the treatment?