Pharmacists 'should take lifestyle factors into account for eye treatments'
Monday 11th May 2009
Pharmacists should discuss lifestyle factors with patients who complain of dry eyes, it has been suggested.
According to Chris Miller, business unit manager at Alcon UK, the increased use of computer screens, air conditioning and central heating mean that the eye condition is becoming more common, Chemist+Druggist reports.
He said: "We encourage pharmacists to talk to customers about their lifestyle in order to identify what factors may be contributing to their symptoms of dry eyes."
Mr Miller went on to say that around 15 per cent of people aged over 40 have some form of dry eye problem and women are more at risk than men.
He also pointed out that if there are signs of eye infection, pharmacists have protocols to help them decide whether the patient can be treated in the pharmacy or whether they need to be referred for further assistance.
Alcon UK was established in 1969 and employs nearly 140 staff who are involved in the selling and distribution of ophthalmic surgical equipment and supplies and pharmaceutical products.
Written by Martin Lambert
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