What is Dry Eye?
Dry Eye is a "multifactorial disease of the ocular surface characterized by a loss of homeostasis of the tear film and accompanied by symptoms in which tear film instability and hyperosmolarity, ocular surface inflammation and damage, and neurosensory abnormalities play etiological roles."
In short form, Dry Eye is:
- Caused by many factors
- Characterized by poor quality tear film or insufficient tear production
- A condition that irritates and damages the cells on the surface of the eye
- Often leading to discomfort and poor quality vision
- A chronic condition, typically requiring ongoing management
Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes
- Blurry or unstable vision
- Sandy, gritty sensation or burning or stinging sensations
- Ongoing watery eyes
- Redness and irritation
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Difficulty reading, using screens or driving
- Headaches
Are You at Risk?
Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing Dry Eye, including
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
- Medication use: decongestants, antihistamines, antidepressants etc
- Age: more common in people over 50
- Gender: women are more frequently affected than men
- Hormonal changes, including menopause
- Inflammatory disorders: rosacea, blepharitis
- Autoimmune disorders: arthritis, diabetes, thyroid disorders
- Chronic inflammatory disorders: rosacea, blepharitis etc
- Environmental irritants: wind, pollen, low humidity, smoke
- Lifestyle factors that contribute to reduced blink rate: screen time, reading, driving
How We Help
At Innisfail Eyecare Centre, our goal is to help all patients achieve comfortable and clear vision, now and in the long term. We offer a wide range of personalized treatment options that our optometrists will tailor to your specific needs.
- Lubricating eye drops: BioTrue (Regular, Gel), Hylo (1, 2, Dual, Dual Intense), Ocunox ointment, i-Drop (Regular, Gel, MGD), Systane (Ultra Hydration, Complete, Gel)
- Lid Hygiene: Lid ‘n Lash (Regular, Plus, Makeup Remover)
- Omega 3 supplements
- Warm Mask Compress and massage
- Sunglasses when outdoors year-round
- Use of a humidifier
- Avoid direct air flow (fans, vents etc).
- Staying hydrated
- Contact lens type: daily disposables vs monthly lenses
- Instead of a multipurpose solution use ClearCare
- Visit one of our Optometrists at Innisfail Eyecare Centre to review and for a personalized management plan
Don’t Wait – Take A Step Toward Relief
If you are experiencing symptoms of Dry Eye or think you are at risk, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can make all the difference.
Call 403-912-0999 To Discuss