Ashfield NSW local optometrist
Dry eye can feel like burning, grittiness, watering, tired eyes or fluctuating vision. The cause may involve tear quality, screen use, environment, eyelids, medications or general health.
General information only. Individual suitability, benefits and risks depend on an eye examination and may vary between patients.
Dry, gritty, watery or burning eyes? Learn common dry eye symptoms, causes and when to book an optometrist appointment in Ashfield.
Reviewed by: Dr. Shirley Wang, Optometrist
Qualifications: Bachelor of Optometry, UNSW
Languages: English, Mandarin and Cantonese
Last medically reviewed: 28 July 2026
Symptoms may relate to reduced tear production, faster tear evaporation, eyelid or oil-gland problems, environment, screen habits, contact-lens wear, medicines or general health. Assessment helps identify which factors are most relevant.
The optometrist reviews symptoms, timing, screen and workplace exposure, medicines, general health, contact-lens wear, eyelids, tear film, eye surface and prescription. Further testing or referral depends on the findings.
Advice may include environmental and screen changes, blinking and break routines, eyelid care, lubricants or other management pathways. Product choice and frequency should be based on symptoms, examination findings and professional advice.
Pain, marked redness, light sensitivity, injury, sudden vision change, flashes, a curtain-like shadow or a red painful eye in a contact-lens wearer needs prompt or urgent assessment rather than routine self-treatment.
Bring current eye drops, glasses, contact lenses and solutions, plus a list of medicines and when symptoms are worst. Avoid concealing symptoms with a new product immediately before the examination unless it is needed for comfort or safety.
Yes. Dry eye can make vision fluctuate, especially with screen use, reading, air conditioning or contact lenses.
Sometimes. Irritated dry eyes can water reflexively, so persistent watering should be checked.
You can book an appointment with iFocus Optometrists Ashfield for dry eye assessment and advice.