Dry eyes can be frustrating and uncomfortable, leading to symptoms such as eye irritation, redness, and sensitivity. We understand our patients’ prevalence of dry eye concerns at Garibaldi Eye Care in Squamish, Canada. In this informative blog post, we will delve into the causes of dry eyes and explore various treatment options. By addressing the root causes and seeking professional guidance, you can find relief and improve your overall eye health.

Causes of Dry Eyes

Dry eye syndrome can be attributed to various internal and external factors. Here are some common culprits:

• Insufficient tear production: Inadequate tear production can lead to dryness and discomfort.

• Poor tear quality: Tears with an imbalance of oil, water, or mucus can evaporate quickly, causing dryness.

• Environmental factors: Dry air, smoke, wind, and other external elements can contribute to dry eyes.

• Prolonged screen time: Staring at screens for extended periods can reduce blinking and lead to dryness.

• Underlying medical conditions and medications: Certain health conditions and medications can cause or worsen dry eye symptoms.

For a comprehensive understanding of dry eye causes specific to Canada, refer to the  Statistics Canada report on the prevalence of Dry Eye Syndrome.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Common symptoms of dry eyes include:

• Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes.

• Redness and irritation.

• Excessive tearing (reflex tearing) as a response to dryness.

• Sensitivity to light.

• Blurred vision or eye fatigue.

Diagnosing Dry Eyes

Consulting an eye care professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis. They may perform the following tests:

• Eye exam: An eye care professional will examine your eyes to assess tear production, tear quality, and overall eye health.

• Schirmer’s test: These measures tear production by placing a small strip of paper under the lower eyelid.

• Tear film break-up time: This test evaluates tear stability by assessing how long it takes for the tear film to break up.

• Ocular surface staining: Special dyes detect areas of dryness and damage on the eye’s surface.

Non-prescription Remedies for Dry Eyes

Several non-prescription remedies can help manage dry eye symptoms:

• Artificial tears: Over-the-counter eye drops provide temporary relief by lubricating the eyes.

• Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to the eyes can help stimulate oil gland function and improve tear quality.

• Eyelid hygiene: Proper eyelid hygiene, including gentle cleaning and massaging, can promote healthier tears.

• Blink exercises and screen breaks: Taking regular intervals during screen time and practicing blink exercises can help maintain tear film stability and reduce dryness.

• Humidifiers and air filters: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier and using air filters can help alleviate dryness caused by environmental factors.

Medical Treatments for Dry Eyes

In more severe cases, medical treatments may be necessary. These may include:

• Prescription eye drops, or ointments can help increase tear production or reduce inflammation.

• Punctal plugs: Tiny plugs inserted into the tear ducts can help retain tears on the eye’s surface.

• Meibomian gland expression or LipiFlow treatment: These procedures aim to improve the function of the oil glands in the eyelids, enhancing tear quality.

• Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy: IPL therapy can reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in certain types of dry eye.

• Autologous eye drops: This eye drops from a person’s blood serum can help promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Lifestyle Changes and Preventive Measures

In addition to treatments, incorporating these lifestyle changes and preventive measures can help manage dry eyes:

• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet: Proper hydration and a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can support overall eye health.

• Wearing protective eyewear: In harsh environments, such as windy or dusty conditions, wearing goggles or wraparound sunglasses can shield the eyes from irritants.

• Managing screen time and workstation ergonomics: Taking regular breaks, adjusting screen brightness, and ensuring proper posture can reduce eye strain and dryness associated with prolonged screen use.

• Regular eye exams: Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and intervention. An eye care professional can monitor your eye health, identify changes, and suggest appropriate treatments for dry eye symptoms.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

When it comes to managing dry eyes, seeking the expertise of an optometrist at Garibaldi Eye Care in Squamish, Canada, is the right choice. Our optometrists have the knowledge, specialized tools, and personalized approach to diagnose and treat the underlying causes of your dry eyes effectively. Don’t let dry eyes limit your daily activities; take the first step towards better eye health by booking an appointment with us today.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is a highly recommended medical treatment for dry eyes. This innovative treatment option has shown promising results in reducing inflammation and improving dry eye symptoms. Our experienced optometrists can assess your condition and determine if IPL therapy suits you.

We understand the importance of your vision and overall eye health at Garibaldi Eye Care. Let us be your trusted partner in maintaining healthy, comfortable eyes. Schedule your appointment today and discover the difference expert dry eye care can make.