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COMMON MEDICAL DRY EYE TERMS
Blepharitis
inflammation or infection of the Meibomian Glands leading to a discharge of mucus on the eyelids
Conjunctivitis
inflammation or infection of the outer (surface) cells (conjunctiva) of the eye leading to swollen blood vessels and red eye appearance
Cornea
The central dome of the eye that is clear of blood vessesl so that vision may be unobscured
Cicatrical Conjunctivitis
affection that causes scarring of the conjunctiva initially and then the cornea
Chalazion / Hordeolum
A Chalazion is a blocked Meibomian gland whereas as Hordeolum or Stye, Sty (US), is an infected blocked Meibomian Gland
Goblet Cells
secrete mucus tear adhesion layer onto the surface of the eye
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
from the Latin for surface of the eye being dry
Lacrimal Glands
secrete wet salty tears to protect and lubricate the eye
Meibomian Gland
the pores between the eyelashes that secrete the oily component of the tear film
Pterygium
Triangular growth over the cornea caused by prolonged exposure to strong sunlight and dry conditions
Punctal Occlusion
The
Puncta are the ducts in the nasal corners of each eye. Puncta can be
occluded or blocked by specialists wishing to reduce tear drainage
Schirmer's Test
a small strip of filter paper inserted under the eye lid for 5 minutes reveals how much tear film exists
Sjögrens Syndrome
an auto-immune disease which causes normal lubricating secretions around the body to dry up
Xerophthalmus
from the Greek for dry and eye, abnormal dryness of cornea and conjunctiva
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PROFESSIONAL ROLES
Dispensing Optician
manages the correct fitting of spectacles and may also include contact lenses after optional certification
General Practitioner
medical doctor with general responsibilities for community health care, often with some specialist expertise
Nurse Independent Prescriber
since 2006 some nurses may prescribe non-controlled (simple & safe) drugs within their area of expertise
Ophthalmic Optician (Optometrist)
professional who conducts the sight test and are trained to recognise and participate in eye disease. Many have special expertise in low vision support
Ophthalmologist
medical doctor, specialising in eyes, most are practising surgeons (for historical reasons surgeons have the title Mr instead of Dr)
Pharmacist
highly trained in medicines to supervise the range and dosage of treatments that individuals have had prescribed. Also advise on a full range of non prescription medicine
If you have another question ask it here in our friendly dry eyes forum
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