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Is this Dry Eye Syndrome?

Posted , 4 users are following.

Caracoveney
Caracoveney

Hallo.  I have stumbled across this condition as perhaps being what I have, as I had thought that dry eye syndrome would be just that - constantly dry eyes that drops could control.  However, what I have been experiencing for a few weeks is this:  heavy eyelids, 'scratching' and 'burning' sensation, itchiness, soreness, and some watering within the eye and just on the edge and not being able to keep my eyes open for long because of the discomfort.  I put this down to perhaps late developing hay fever, as I have been gardening (I have NEVER had hay fever - I am aged 66)  - however, it doesn't always happen when I have been in the garden.  I generally wear glasses, and only wear contact lenses if I am going out, so haven't recently.  

I cannot see anything in the eyes.  I have rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis, for which I take Methotrexate (but I have been on that for over 5-6 years).  I also take Amitryptiline, Folic Acid, Amlodipin (for high blood pressure, but is under control) and Atorvastin (for high cholesterol, also under control).

Should I go to an optician or to my doctor?

Thank you.

0 likes, 10 replies

10 Replies

  • Shrimpie
    Shrimpie Caracoveney

    Posted

    I also have dry eyes after lens replacement surgery on both eyes . I have been given Hyco SAN + eye drops which I use throughout the day . I am also on Amitryptiline for migraines. My eyes do feel heavy and also itchy at times . When I spoke to the hospital they said it can sometimes take 6 months or more fir the new lenses to settle in the eyes . Hope this helps . 
    • Caracoveney
      Caracoveney Shrimpie

      Posted

      Hi

      Thank you very much - it looks as though it's not hayfever, then (I don't get sneezing or anything like that) and that dry eye may well be the cause.  

  • hol1983
    hol1983 Caracoveney

    Posted

    I would say this is very consistent with dry eye, I get it all the time.
    • Caracoveney
      Caracoveney hol1983

      Posted

      Thank you for your reply.  It's not at all what I thought Dry Eye was but the symptoms seem to fit.

  • Marina_Dee
    Marina_Dee Caracoveney

    Posted

    Sounds exactly like dry eye and blepharitis. Go to your doctor. if you are in UK you should be able to get all the drops and ointments etc on free prescriptions. You may need to use them for the rest of your life. While waiting for that doctors appt get some Hypromellose drops [artificial tears] from your chemist . You may have to give up the contacts.

     

    • Caracoveney
      Caracoveney Marina_Dee

      Posted

      Thank you for your comment.  There seemed to be so many symptoms for Dry Eye that are consistent with what I have, when I was only looking for 'hayfever developing in later life', so was on the wrong lines completely.  Yes, I will start the long wait for the doctor's appointment though I can sit and wait there one morning to get the duty doctor and thank you for mentioning the drops.  I was flummoxed as to what I should be treating! 

    • Marina_Dee
      Marina_Dee Caracoveney

      Posted

      Use the drops at night and then several times during the day. Good luck.
    • hol1983
      hol1983 Caracoveney

      Posted

      In my opinion GP are used less with eyes, you're better off with your optition who can diagnose both. I have dry eye and my daughter has Bleharitus - neither are available on prescription I'm afraid. My daughter used blephasol from boots which is good for blepharitis x

  • Shrimpie
    Shrimpie Caracoveney

    Posted

    The Hyco Sans + drops are  the ones recommended to me after surgery . You can buy them on Amazon . Boots pharmacy . 
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