Improve your eye health with Dr Allan Fong, Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance can lead to discomfort and vision problems.
Dry eye syndrome can present a range of symptoms, including:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional evaluation and treatment.
Natural ageing processes reduces tear production. The lacimal gland just does not produce as much tears anymore.
Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry climates can increase tear evaporation. Direct aircon ventilation in offices and vehicles dry up the eyes.
Certain medications, such as antihistamines and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis/autoimmune diseases, and thyroid disorders can contribute to dry eye.
Although dry eyes cannot be cured or eliminated, it can be managed and controlled to alleviate its affliction on the quality of life.
At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we offer a variety of dry eye treatments:
These provide relief and can be used as needed to lubricate the eyes. Preservative free eyedrops are favoured over those with preservatives for ocular surface protection.
Useful prescriptive medications such as cyclosporine eyedrops (0.05% and 0.1%) to increase tear production or counter the the low grade inflammatory drive in moderate to severe dry eyes.
Sufficient Oral Omega-3 supplementation, specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), can be recommended for dry eyes as well. Fish oil or algal oil are common sources. Plant-based alternatives are like flaxseed for vegetarians.
In Asia, about half of the dry eye patients have MGD which makes dry eyes worse. Warm compress, lid hygiene and Omega-3 helps both dry eyes and MGD.
These small devices are inserted into the tear ducts to stop tear drainage into the lacrimal sac, keeping the eyes moist longer.
With our increasing dependence on digital devices for both work and recreation, digital eye strain has become a growing health concern. Symptoms of digital eye strain can be classified into two main categories:
The 20-20-20 rule is widely recommended by organizations like the Health Promotion Board Singapore, American Optometric Association and American Academy of Ophthalmology etc. It is considered an effective, simple behavioral change guideline aimed at reducing digital eye strain from prolonged screen use. It advises that for every 20 minutes spent using a screen, you should take a 20-second break to view something 20 feet (6 metres) away. It helps alleviate symptoms of computer vision syndrome, such as eye fatigue, dryness, irritation, headaches, and blurred vision. How it works: The break allows the eye’s focusing (ciliary) muscles to relax, preventing them from staying in a constant state of tension from close-up focus.
Pair the 20-20-20 rule with frequent blinking to keep eyes moist, and consider ergonomics: adjusting screen brightness and maintaining proper distance (arm’s length) from the monitor. To help reduce digital eye strain, it is also recommended to track and limit overall daily screen time. For leisure beyond work hours, it is recommended to engage in more outdoor recreational activities instead of engaging in screen based leisure activities (eg. watching videos on hand phone and tablets).
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms despite practicing these preventive methods, schedule a consult with us.
With our increasing dependence on digital devices for both work and recreation, digital eye strain has become a growing health concern. Symptoms of digital eye strain can be classified into two main categories:
The 20-20-20 rule is widely recommended by organizations like the Health Promotion Board Singapore, American Optometric Association and American Academy of Ophthalmology etc. It is considered an effective, simple behavioral change guideline aimed at reducing digital eye strain from prolonged screen use. It advises that for every 20 minutes spent using a screen, you should take a 20-second break to view something 20 feet (6 metres) away. It helps alleviate symptoms of computer vision syndrome, such as eye fatigue, dryness, irritation, headaches, and blurred vision. How it works: The break allows the eye’s focusing (ciliary) muscles to relax, preventing them from staying in a constant state of tension from close-up focus.
Pair the 20-20-20 rule with frequent blinking to keep eyes moist, and consider ergonomics: adjusting screen brightness and maintaining proper distance (arm’s length) from the monitor. To help reduce digital eye strain, it is also recommended to track and limit overall daily screen time. For leisure beyond work hours, it is recommended to engage in more outdoor recreational activities instead of engaging in screen based leisure activities (eg. watching videos on hand phone and tablets).
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms despite practicing these preventive methods, schedule a consult with us.
Selecting the most appropriate treatment for dry eye syndrome depends on the severity of your symptoms, the underlying cause, and your overall health. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, our experienced ophthalmologists will conduct a thorough examination and consider your medical history to recommend the best course of action.
We’ll assess the quality and quantity of your tear film and cornea, and evaluate your eye surface.
Based on the findings, we’ll customise a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.
BBM, PBM, MBBS (S’pore), MMed (Ophth),
FRCS (Edinburgh), MRCOphth (London), FAMS
Medical Director
Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon
Visiting Consultant @ SNEC
Adjunct A/Professor, Duke-NUS
Dr Allan Fong is an ophthalmologist with expertise in diagnosing and treating dry eye syndrome. Before joining Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, Dr Fong served as the Head of Cataract & Comprehensive Ophthalmology Department at SNEC for 9 years.
Now, as a Senior Consultant at our centre, he ensures that each patient receives a care plan tailored to their unique vision needs. His commitment to their needs and his years of experience in managing complex eye conditions have endeared him to many patients.
Don’t let dry eye syndrome interfere with your daily life. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we offer personalised treatments to alleviate your symptoms and improve your eye health. Schedule a consultation or make an enquiry today!
For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call or WhatsApp us directly.
We understand you may have many questions about dry eye syndrome. Here are answers to some of the most common queries about dry eye syndrome, recovery, and expected outcomes.
