News and Views

Dry itchy eyes is frequently it is the reason why patients give up using their contact lenses. To help opticians diagnose dry eye quickly and more accurately, Altacor, the ophthalmic products specialists, and No7 the contact lenses manufacturer have collaborated on a trial and the initial results have been very positive.

Andrew Merry Optometrists were one of the first to join the trial in which self-contained dry eye diagnostic kits were provided free of charge by Altacor and No7, and the opticians were trained in how to use them.

Janet Wilkinson of Andrew Merry Optometrists says:

“The trial went extremely well. People often come in saying they have itchy eyes or a burning sensation and are thinking of stopping wearing their contact lenses. Others think they need a new prescription because their vision is starting to blur.

“Normally we would ask a few questions and then recommend eye drops, but we wouldn’t always be able to do any specific tests as appointment time can be limited.

“In the trial, we assessed everyone that complained of dry eye. The kits contained a Lissamine green stain which we can use to examine the eye and look at tear break-up time.”

The diagnostic kit was developed by Altacor and No7 following consultation with opticians. It provides everything needed in one box and issufficient for testing 10 patients. It helps to identify what type of eye treatment will be most effective.

For more information see the video

Altacor will be attending the North of England Ophthalmological Society (NEOS) meeting, Bradford on the 20th March. The theme is vitreoretinal and the PJ Hay Lecture will be given by Mr Tom Williamson, consultant Ophthalmologist at St Thomas' Hospital London.

It looks a varied and interesting range of presentations and we look forward  to seeing you there.

If you are unable to attend the event and would like to gain more information about our prescription range of Clinitas treatments for dry eye please contact: David Harris, our  Altacor representative on 01223 421411

People with diabetes are more prone to dry eyes. If your eyes feel tired, sore or gritty or sandy, you may have 'dry eyes', or 'blepharitis', or both.

The eyelids have tiny glands in them, especially the lower lids. These glands make substances that mix with tears, and help the tears to spread across the eye. This thin layer of tears lubricates the eyes, stops them drying out, and keeps them comfortable. However, as you get older, and particularly if you have dry skin, these glands can block. As a result the glands do not make the chemicals that enables the tears to  spread evenly across the front of the eye. The tears break up and dry patches develop on the surface of the eye which makes them feel sore.

Dry eyes is a common problem for diabetics. The eyes may feel scratchy or gritty, as though there is something in them. They also be a little itchy or feel as though they are burning, with crusting, as though there is something in them (foreign body sensation). Additionally, your lashes may crust up and your eye lids may stick.

Blepharitis is the medical term for inflamed eyelids. The inflammation is like eczema of the skin, with red, scaly eyelids. This makes the eyes feel tired and particularly uncomfortable in sunlight or a smoky atmosphere. They may also be slightly red.

Blepharitis is not usually a serious condition but it is always wise to consult a doctor.  Some simple eye care such as cleaning the eye lids or replacing the tears with a lubricant such as Clinitas Soothe can make the eyes feel more comfortable.

A useful animation which explains this is available on this NHS hospital site.