Ocular surface disease is an umbrella term for conditions affecting the cornea, conjunctiva, eyelids, and tear film. It commonly presents with symptoms of dryness, irritation, and visual fluctuation.
Components
Dry eye disease, blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, allergic conjunctivitis, and exposure problems all fall within the ocular surface spectrum. These conditions often overlap and influence one another.
- Symptoms include burning, grittiness, watering, and light sensitivity
- Signs range from subtle tear film instability to significant inflammation or damage
- Systemic diseases and medications frequently contribute
- Diagnosis relies on history, slit‑lamp examination, and targeted tests
Management
Treatment is typically multi‑step, addressing tear quantity and quality, lid health, environmental factors, and any underlying systemic causes. Long‑term maintenance is often needed.
- Options include lubricants, lid hygiene, warm compresses, anti‑inflammatory drops, and punctal occlusion
- Lifestyle changes such as optimising screen use and humidity are important
- Regular follow‑up tailors therapy to response and disease severity
- Early attention helps prevent more severe surface damage
