Many women in their late forties and older are referred to specialist ophthalmic nurse practitioners in the belief that they require punctual occlusion, when their condition could easily be treated with drops specially formulated for dry eyes. Dry-eye syndrome is often difficult to diagnose as symptoms can vary considerably from patient to patient. Although normally a mild condition, if left untreated it can become more serious, leading to corneal ulcers and other complications. Increased awareness of this condition in primary care would enable treatment to be initiated earlier, significantly improving patient wellbeing.