17 February 2022
The Eye Doctor has launched a newsletter for independent practices to highlight issues around dry eye disease.
The first Clinical InSights newsletter features ophthalmologist and clinical adviser, Dr Colin Parsloe, consultant eye surgeon, Dr Fayyaz Musa, and medical broadcaster, Dr Hilary Jones.
In the first edition, Parsloe reviews research into whether dry eye disease can cause blindness, sharing: “It is believed that having dry eye disease, and in particular, severe dry eye disease, is a risk factor for developing corneal infections.”
Parsloe points to research suggesting that reducing the bacterial load in patients with anterior blepharitis, or meibomian gland disease, “significantly improved the clinical picture of the eyelid margin tissues, including the meibomian glands.”
Exploring how bacteria can exacerbate dry eyes, Musa shared, “Medical studies have found that abnormal quantities of Staphylococci have been found in 50% of patients with dry eye. In normal patients, this is only 8%.”
Meanwhile, Jones emphasised the role of eye masks in the treatment of dry eye, though warned of the risk of cross-contamination and highlighted the importance of choosing a safe and effective product.
The newsletter highlights a milestone achieved last year, when Eye Doctor was granted a patent for Sterileyes – an antibacterial shield on its hot and cold compresses.
Head of professional services, Andrew Price, commented: “There is now a wealth of evidence regarding the limited effectiveness of microwaving in reducing the range and concentration of potential pathogens.” The company suggests its Sterileyes solution can reduce bacteria by 99.9%.
This year, Eye Doctor is recognising its 10th year of supplying to the eye care industry. The company will be celebrating the anniversary at 100% Optical.
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