Jacky’s red, sore eyes are relieved by a compress
DRY eye disease affects up to 70 per cent of us at some point. Glands in our eyelids should produce a thin oil that keeps them moist. But this can thicken to a buttery consistency. Regular use of a warm eyelid compress, along with gentle massage, has been shown to be an effective way to relieve dry eye disease. Library worker Jacky Mulley (pictured), 62, says she has suffered from dry eye disease for as long as she can remember. ‘My eyes can water continuously, especially when reading a book or watching TV. It looks like I have been crying, which can be embarrasing at work. ‘When they are not watering, the irritation is often so frustrating. I can feel my eyes scratching on my eyelids every time I blink.’ But regular use of a warm eye compress, sold in Boots and recommended by TV’s Dr Hilary Jones, has really helped her. ‘After years of trying drops, at last I have something that I feel has changed my life! My confidence is back after so long when my eyes were red and inflamed.’ She uses the compress every evening, popping it in the microwave for 25 to 30 seconds. It then delivers around ten minutes of soothing heat. This is long enough to melt the buttery oil so that it becomes liquid again. Once glands in the eyes are unblocked, healthy oil is produced. Jacky adds: ‘It’s so relaxing, I have to fight to stay awake! I love how the compress is washable and antibacterial. Each lasts a year. I will continue to use this product for ever!’