Do Dryness And Burning In The Eye Require Consultation With An Ophthalmologist For Diagnosing Dry Eye Condition?

Posted on Tue, 9 Oct 2018

Question: I watch several hours of TV per day, especially during the long & cold New England Winters. It affects my eyes which become very dry and some burning is experienced. Therefore, I have the need to use “SYSTANE
ULTRA” eye drops often which helps relieve the DRY EYE & sometimes EYE BURNING sensation.

My question is should I visit an Optometrist or Ophlamologist for a DRY EYE screening to check for CHRONIC
DRY CONDITION?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, an ophthalmologist should be consulted.

Detailed Answer:

Hello and Welcome!

I appreciate your concern.

Yes, an ophthalmologist should be consulted.

Dry eye can be related to weather. Both excess dry and hot weather can alter lacrimation and affect the tear film adversely leading to dry eyes.

Damage to Meibomian glands and ocular surface diseases including blepharitis and allergies should be assessed for and treated promptly.

Decreased blinking due to excessive laptop, television and mobile device use along with lack of humidity in the room can contribute to a less effective tear film.

Tear film osmolarity and tear break up time can be advised as part of the workup if your ophthalmologist deems it appropriate.

Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action.

Hope I have answered your query.

Wishing you best of health.

Regards,

Dr. M.S. Khalil
General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar