Causes of Aqueous Deficiencies in Dry Eye

The aqueous is the watery layer of the tears. It is produced in the lacrimal glands.

Deficiencies in aqueous production can be caused by:

• Auto-immune disorders, such as Sjogrens
• Medicines for blood pressure, anti-depressants, hormone replacement therapy
• LASER surgery
• Medicines for Acne, such as Roaccutane

Deficiencies in the watery layer lead to symptoms such as burning, grittiness and reduction in quality of vision as the cornea becomes dessicated (dry).

Here at the Dry Eye Centre, we diagnose aqueous deficiency using the Schirmer's test. In this test a small strip of paper is inserted under the bottom lid. The paper is left for 5 minutes and at the end of the test the length of the paper that has become wet from absorbing the tears is measured. A measurement less than 10mm is considered abnormally low. 

At the Dry Eye Centre, we try to understand the cause(s) of patient dry eye and aim to treat not only the symptoms of Dry Eye but also the cause of Dry Eye, where possible. We are happy to work with your GP or Consultant to develop a comprehensive medical approach that works for you.