Challenge the Pain

Patient Reported Symptoms of Chronic Ocular Surface Pain

William F. Wiley, MD; and Jacqueline Theis, OD, FAAO, FNAP

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Ophthalmologist William F. Wiley, MD, and Optometrist Jacqueline Theis, OD, FAAO, FNAP, share their clinical experiences with patient-reported symptoms of chronic ocular surface pain (COSP), including burning, dryness, and itching that lasts for more than three months and doesn’t go away even when attempts are made at managing symptoms. They also review the risk factors associated with COSP and share tips for diagnosing this condition.

Posted: 6/25/2025

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Patient Reported Symptoms of Chronic Ocular Surface Pain

William F. Wiley, MD; and Jacqueline Theis, OD, FAAO, FNAP

Ophthalmologist William F. Wiley, MD, and Optometrist Jacqueline Theis, OD, FAAO, FNAP, share their clinical experiences with patient-reported symptoms of chronic ocular surface pain (COSP), including burning, dryness, and itching that lasts for more than three months and doesn’t go away even when attempts are made at managing symptoms. They also review the risk factors associated with COSP and share tips for diagnosing this condition.

Posted: 6/25/2025

About CHRONIC OCULAR SURFACE PAIN (COSP)

Many eye care patients may have Chronic Ocular Surface Pain (COSP), defined as a feeling of pain originating from the ocular surface that persists for more than three months⁴. COSP is often overlooked or misdiagnosed. It’s important to learn how to diagnose COSP in your practice.

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