Dry eye is a common condition which can often be managed in primary care. It is particularly common in contact lens wearers and following corrective laser eye surgery. There are a multitude of different drops to use depending on patient preference. Please refer to the Formulary for more advice. Drops/gels can be used frequently throughout the day without blurring vision. A thicker/longer acting lubricant before bed can lubricate the eye overnight. Contact lens wearers should contact their optometrist who will suggest drops which may be used with their contact lenses.
Who to refer:
Please see Lothian GP and optometry ophthalmology referral pathway.
Urgency of the condition for details on how soon patients should receive an appointment.
Patients who present with a problem with their only seeing eye should be advised to see an optician/ophthalmologist for review.
How to refer:
We require a referral letter for EVERY patient.
The preferred referral process is via SCI Gateway. If sending/forwarding a referral via SCI gateway please include past medical history, allergies and medications
If you do not have access to fax or SCI Gateway e.g. if you have arranged an appointment out of hours please send a written referral letter with the patient to bring to their appointment.
Only if SCI Gateway is unavailable should a letter be typed or handwritten. Please write legibly and include your examination findings.
If you have arranged an appointment in the acute referral clinic and you are referring from within another hospital in Lothian please use TRAK to type the referral letter.
