Dry Eye Treatment Plans: Relief for Irritated Eyes
- The Straits Eye Centre
- Sep 18, 2025
- 3 min read
Why Dry Eye Needs Attention
Dry, irritated eyes are more than a daily nuisance. Left unmanaged, dry eye syndrome, blepharitis, or ocular surface disease can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and even long-term damage to the eye’s surface.
In Singapore’s climate, where air conditioning, screen use, and aging all increase risk, dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions. Fortunately, tailored treatment plans provide both short-term relief and long-term protection.
Causes of Dry Eye
Environmental factors: Prolonged screen use, air conditioning, or wind exposure
Aging: Tear production decreases naturally with age
Medical conditions: Diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or eyelid problems like blepharitis
Medications: Some antihistamines, blood pressure drugs, or antidepressants
Treatment Options for Dry Eye
Lifestyle Adjustments
Frequent screen breaks
Humidifiers to reduce dryness indoors
Proper hydration and balanced diet
Artificial Tears and Lubricating Drops
Over-the-counter or prescribed options can improve comfort by supplementing natural tears.
Prescription Medications
Anti-inflammatory eye drops may be used to improve tear quality and reduce irritation.
Procedures
Punctal Plugs: Tiny devices inserted into tear ducts to keep tears on the eye longer.
Blepharitis Treatments: Lid hygiene, warm compresses, or in-office cleaning procedures.
Advanced Ocular Surface Care
For chronic ocular surface disease, treatments may include autologous serum eye drops or specialised in-clinic therapies.
Benefits of a Personalised Treatment Plan
Relief from burning, stinging, or gritty sensations
Clearer vision and reduced fluctuation throughout the day
Protection of the cornea and ocular surface from long-term damage
Improved quality of life, especially for those with heavy screen time or aging-related dryness
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should I see a doctor for dry eyes?
If discomfort is persistent, affects daily tasks, or does not improve with artificial tears, see a specialist for assessment.
2. Can dry eye be cured?
Dry eye is usually a chronic condition but can be effectively managed with treatment tailored to your cause.
3. Is blepharitis linked to dry eye?
Yes. Inflammation of the eyelids often disrupts oil secretion, worsening dryness. Treating blepharitis is key to managing dry eye.
4. Are dry eye treatments painful?
Most treatments, including punctal plugs or in-office eyelid cleaning, are safe and cause minimal discomfort.
5. Can lifestyle changes alone treat dry eye?
Mild cases may improve with changes such as screen breaks and humidifiers, but persistent cases often need medical treatment.
6. Is dry eye more common in seniors?
Yes. Tear production decreases with age, making dry eye more common in adults over 50.
7. Is dry eye covered by Medisave or insurance?
Routine dry eye treatment is generally not Medisave-claimable. However, if linked to other medical conditions, certain procedures may be covered.
8. What happens if dry eye is left untreated?
Chronic irritation can lead to corneal damage, infections, and reduced quality of vision.
Meet Our Specialists
At The Straits Eye Centre, your vision care is in the hands of a dedicated team of experienced ophthalmologists. Each of our doctors brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to delivering thorough, patient-focused care for all ages. Whether you need advanced cataract surgery, paediatric eye management, or treatment for complex eye conditions, our team works together to provide the same attentive care we would want for our own families.
Dr Jayant V Iyer
Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon
Special interest: Cataract, Glaucoma, General Ophthalmology With specialist training in Singapore and the UK, Dr Jayant V Iyer has served as Head of Department at Sengkang General Hospital and Senior Consultant at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. He is committed to delivering safe, precise surgical care with clear communication at every stage.
Dr Jason Lee
Senior Consultant & Medical Director
Special interest: Oculoplastics, General Ophthalmology, Myopia, Cataract, Diabetic Retinopathy Dr Jason Lee has extensive training in eyelid, orbital, and tear system surgery, with fellowships completed in Taiwan and China. Previously a Senior Consultant at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, he co-founded The Vision Mission, a non-profit bringing sustainable eye care to communities in Asia.
Cost, Medisave, and Insurance
Many procedures at The Straits Eye Centre are eligible for Medisave claims under MOH guidelines, and certain insurance plans may cover part or all of your treatment costs. Our patient care team will guide you through eligibility, claim limits, and paperwork, so you can focus on your recovery. For more details, refer to our Medisave & Insurance Guide.
Secure Your Appointment at The Straits Eye Centre
at Parkway East Hospital
Your vision health deserves timely and professional attention. Book your appointment now at our Parkway East Hospital clinic and take the first step towards clearer, healthier sight.
