If your eyes feel gritty by lunchtime, water in the wind or become uncomfortable at the computer, it can be hard to know what will help. You may have tried several drops already. We start by understanding your symptoms and examining your eyes, so the next step has a clear purpose.
Dry eye disease affects the stability and health of the tear film and eye surface. It can involve tear evaporation, reduced tear production, eyelid problems, inflammation and changes in the nerves that sense discomfort. More than one factor can contribute. Treatment should address the causes found in your assessment. 1
Contents
What does dry eye feel like?
Common symptoms include grittiness, burning, soreness, redness, light sensitivity and vision that becomes blurry or fluctuates. Some people notice watering rather than an obvious feeling of dryness. These symptoms can affect reading, screen work and contact lens comfort. They can also occur with other eye conditions, so persistent symptoms deserve an examination. 7
When symptoms need urgent attention
Do not assume a painful red eye or a sudden change in vision is simply dry eye. Seek urgent eye care for significant pain, marked light sensitivity or new visual changes. Sudden loss of vision, an eye injury, or a red eye with severe headache and nausea needs emergency assessment. 7
If you wear contact lenses and develop redness, pain, light sensitivity or sudden blur, remove the lenses and seek urgent advice. Do not put them back in until an eye care practitioner says it is safe. 8
What causes dry eye disease?
Tears that evaporate too quickly
The meibomian glands along the eyelids supply oils that help stabilise the tear film. When the glands are not working well, the tears can evaporate too quickly. This is called meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD. Blepharitis, inflammation around the eyelid margins, can contribute too. Eyelid position and incomplete closure can also affect how tears protect the eye.
Reduced tear production and other contributing factors
Ageing, hormonal changes and some health conditions can contribute to dry eye. Sjögren’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disease are relevant parts of the medical history. Some medicines, including antihistamines, antidepressants and certain blood pressure medicines, may also play a part. Tell us what you take, but do not stop prescribed medication without advice from the prescriber. 2 7
Dry eye is common, but estimates depend strongly on who is studied and how it is defined. The TFOS DEWS II epidemiology review reported estimates ranging from 5% to 50%. This is a range across studies, not a claim that half of Australians have dry eye. Your symptoms and examination matter more than a headline percentage. 2
Screens, contact lenses and your surroundings
Long periods of screen viewing can change how often and how completely you blink. Heating, air conditioning, wind and low humidity can make discomfort worse. Screen related symptoms may also involve focusing or vision correction problems, so it is worth considering more than screen time alone. 3
Contact lens discomfort can overlap with dry eye, but the lens fit, wearing schedule and other eye surface conditions also need consideration. Repeatedly pushing through discomfort is not a solution. 8
What happens at a dry eye assessment?
Understanding your symptoms
We ask when your eyes feel uncomfortable, what makes symptoms worse and what you have already tried. Your medical history, medicines, contact lens use and previous eye procedures help us understand the picture. A symptom questionnaire may help document the effect on daily life and provide a starting point for review. 1
Examining the tears, eyelids and eye surface
The assessment may include tear film stability, eyelid and gland examination, and diagnostic dyes to reveal surface changes. Tear quantity and additional tests are considered where indicated. We interpret symptoms and findings together; one result does not explain every case. If the findings suggest another condition, we will discuss further investigation or referral. 1
You can read more about our eye examinations before your visit.
How is dry eye treated?
A useful plan explains what each treatment is intended to address, how to use it and when to review the result. Some people need a simple home routine; others need several approaches or coordinated care with an ophthalmologist. The choice depends on the cause and severity, rather than a fixed sequence everyone must follow. 4
Lubricating drops, gels and ointments
Lubricants supplement the tear film and can ease symptoms. The formulation matters, and preservative free options may be preferable when drops are needed frequently or the surface is sensitive. Thicker gels or ointments can blur vision temporarily, so their timing needs consideration. We can help you choose a suitable product and schedule.
Eyelid care and warm compresses
When eyelid inflammation or MGD contributes, a tailored cleaning routine and warm compresses may help. Use comfortable warmth, not excessive heat, and follow the technique recommended for your eyes. Eyelid care is not the answer to every type of dry eye, and persistent symptoms should be reviewed.
Prescription treatment and tear conservation
Persistent inflammation may need prescription treatment and monitoring. Punctal plugs, which reduce tear drainage, may be considered for selected patients. Their suitability depends on the eye surface and treatment goals; they do not treat every cause of dryness. We will explain relevant benefits, risks and whether referral is needed. 4
IPL and thermal treatments for MGD
Intense pulsed light, or IPL, and thermal treatments such as LipiFlow are options used for selected cases of MGD. They are different procedures and should not be treated as interchangeable. A recent systematic review found that IPL probably improves MGD related dry eye symptoms compared with no treatment, while its additional benefit alongside standard treatment was less certain. 6
Before choosing a procedure, ask why it suits the findings, what improvement is realistic, how many visits may be needed and what it will cost. We can discuss appropriate options and referral where required; this page does not imply that every device-based treatment is performed at VCO.
Contact lenses and scleral lenses
If ordinary contact lenses feel dry, we assess both the eye surface and the lens routine. Changing the lens or wearing schedule may be part of the plan. For selected people with more severe ocular surface disease, scleral lenses hold a fluid reservoir over the cornea and may improve comfort and vision. They require individual fitting and ongoing care.
Explore our contact lens care and scleral lens information for more about assessment and fitting.
ZEST Eyelid Treatment at Vision Camberwell Optometrists
What is ZEST?
ZEST stands for Zocular Eyelid System Treatment. We offer it as an in practice eyelid cleaning procedure for selected patients with eyelid margin buildup and blepharitis. A formulated cleanser is used around the eyelid margins and lash line to help remove accumulated material. It may form part of a broader dry eye plan, alongside home care and other treatment.
What can you expect from ZEST?
The cleaning procedure typically takes around 10–15 minutes, although your assessment and total appointment may take longer. We explain the procedure and check suitability first. Tell us about allergies, sensitive skin and previous reactions to eyelid products. Let the practitioner know if cleaning feels uncomfortable.
Published research on this type of gel-based lid cleaning includes a retrospective study of 19 patients. That is a limited basis for predicting an individual result or claiming superiority over other treatments. ZEST should not be presented as a permanent cure, a guaranteed way to restore gland function or a treatment for every cause of dry eye. 5
Everyday Changes That May Help
During screen work, take regular breaks and make a conscious effort to blink fully. Position the screen comfortably, often slightly below eye level, and avoid air vents blowing directly at your face. A less dry indoor environment may help. These changes support treatment but do not replace an assessment when symptoms persist. 3 7
Bring your current eye drops or a list of them to your appointment. We can check whether the products and frequency fit your needs, rather than simply adding another bottle to the routine.
Ongoing Care and Realistic Expectations
Dry eye often needs ongoing management, with adjustments as symptoms and circumstances change. Relief from a lubricant does not necessarily mean the underlying problem is resolved. Follow up helps assess comfort, surface health and whether the routine is practical enough to maintain. 4
We will explain what to try first and when to reassess. Tell us if treatment is difficult to follow, causes irritation or is not helping. Before an additional procedure or lens fitting, ask about the full cost and what follow-up is included.
Before Your Dry Eye Appointment
Bring your glasses, contact lens details, current eye products and medication list. Note when symptoms started, whether one or both eyes are affected, and any previous treatments or eye surgery. Mention dry mouth, joint symptoms or a diagnosed autoimmune condition so we can consider whether further medical assessment is relevant.
Ask about appointment preparation when booking, including contact lens wear and eye makeup. Continue prescribed treatment unless your treating practitioner advises otherwise.
Questions About Dry Eye
Why do my eyes water if they are dry?
An irritated eye can produce extra reflex tears, so watering can occur with dry eye. Watering can also have other causes, including tear drainage problems. An assessment helps distinguish them rather than assuming that more tears mean a healthy tear film. 7
Is dry eye just part of getting older?
Age is a risk factor, but younger people can have dry eye too. Symptoms should not be dismissed as something you simply have to tolerate. The aim is to identify contributing factors and find a manageable treatment plan. 2
Can screen use cause dry eye?
Screen use can contribute to symptoms through changes in blinking and prolonged visual tasks. It may aggravate an existing problem rather than explain everything on its own. Breaks and complete blinking are useful habits, but ongoing discomfort still deserves assessment. 3
How quickly will treatment help?
The timeframe depends on the treatment and what is driving your symptoms. Lubrication may give temporary relief, while managing inflammation or eyelid problems can require a longer course. We will set a review point based on your plan rather than promise a fixed recovery time. 4
Can I keep wearing contact lenses?
Sometimes, with changes to the lens or routine. If lenses are uncomfortable, remove them and use glasses until you have advice. Pain, redness, light sensitivity or sudden blur needs urgent assessment, not simply a different contact lens or more lubricating drops. 8
Will I need ZEST?
Only if eyelid findings make it a reasonable option. We discuss what the procedure can address and what other care you may still need. Booking a dry eye assessment does not commit you to having ZEST or another procedure.
Book a Dry Eye Assessment in Camberwell
You do not need to know which treatment to ask for. Tell us how your eyes feel and what you have tried, and we will work through the next step with you.
Vision Camberwell Optometrists is at 784 Burke Road, Camberwell, serving Melbourne’s inner east, including Hawthorn, Balwyn, Kew, Canterbury and beyond. Consultations with Jue Wang are available in English and Mandarin.
Book a dry eye assessment or call 03 9882 5666.
References
- Wolffsohn JS, Benitez-Del-Castillo J, Loya-Garcia D, et al. TFOS DEWS III: Diagnostic Methodology. American Journal of Ophthalmology. 2025;279:387–450. doi:10.1016/j.ajo.2025.05.033.
- Stapleton F, Alves M, Bunya VY, et al. TFOS DEWS II Epidemiology Report. The Ocular Surface. 2017;15(3):334–365. doi:10.1016/j.jtos.2017.05.003.
- Wolffsohn JS, Lingham G, Downie LE, et al. TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of the digital environment on the ocular surface. The Ocular Surface. 2023;28:213–252. doi:10.1016/j.jtos.2023.04.004.
- Jones L, Craig JP, Markoulli M, et al. TFOS DEWS III: Management and Therapy. American Journal of Ophthalmology. 2025;279:289–386. doi:10.1016/j.ajo.2025.05.039.
- Diaz-Vega B, Rodriguez-Fabuel C, Vitores-Mate S, Carpena-Torres C. Lid scrubbing with a gel combining natural extracts for dry eye treatment. International Journal of Ophthalmology. 2023;16(7):1053–1059. doi:10.18240/ijo.2023.07.08.
- Peira N, Ali EM, Modén NK, Fjellgren E, Lennmarken C, Hultcrantz M. Effectiveness and safety of intense pulsed light therapy for dry eye symptoms due to meibomian gland dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Ophthalmologica. 2025;103(4):371–379. doi:10.1111/aos.16802.
- NHS. Dry eyes. Accessed 10 September 2026.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What Causes Contact Lens-related Eye Infections. Accessed 10 September 2026.
Reviewed by Dr Shonit Jagmohan, B.Optom (Hons), FIAOMC, IACMM, Ophthalmic Medicines Prescriber, Fellowship Chair for the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (Oceania). Last reviewed October 2026.
Visit us in Camberwell
T. (03) 9882 5666
E. vision@visioncamberwell.com.au
Find Us at:
784 Burke Rd, Camberwell
Victoria 3124, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday, Tuesday and Friday. 9am – 6pm
Wednesday. 9am – 5pm
Thursday. 10.30am – 7.30pm
Saturday. CLOSED
Book your appointment with one of our friendly team members today
T: (03) 9882 5666
Serving Camberwell and the Surrounding South Eastern Suburbs
An independent practice in Camberwell since 1951, we are experts in dry eye assessment, ZEST eyelid treatment and scleral lens fitting. We welcome patients from Hawthorn, Deepdene, Surrey Hills, Balwyn, Kew, Canterbury, Box Hill, Glen Iris, and across greater Melbourne.
