Dry eye irritants highlighted in survey

A survey of 2,000 people, commissioned by Théa UK, found Brits were regularly exposed to irritants that could lead to dry eye disease.

The company’s Not a Dry Eye in the House survey highlighted that people were frequently exposed to screens, cleaning products, face cream and moisturisers, kitchen smoke, eye make-up and air conditioning.

Only 35% of respondents were aware that air conditioned or heated environments could increase risk of dry eye disease and 64% were unaware that smokers were twice as likely to develop the disease.

Sarah Farrant, optometrist and dry eye expert at Théa UK, said: ‘There are many simple ways that people can look after their eyes, such as reducing screen time, giving our eyes a rest every 20 minutes when at a screen for long periods of time, wearing sunglasses outside, and adopting an appropriate eye care routine.’