Irritating, Uncomfortable Eyes
We use our eyes all day long, but we rarely think of them—unless they’re uncomfortable, and then they’re all we think about.
Dry eye is a chronic, common, and uncomfortable condition, impacting around 6 million Canadians. Not only is it irritating, but it can really put a damper on your daily activities. Dry eyes can decrease your quality of life and hamper productivity.
But relief is available! Book an exam today for a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose your dry eye. While the condition is rarely serious on its own, it can lead to long-term infections and eye damage down the road. Anytime your eyes are uncomfortable, it’s best to pay us a visit and rule out any more worrisome conditions.
Book AppointmentSymptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms generally occur in both eyes at the same time and can include:
- Stinging or burning
- A gritty or scratchy feeling
- Foreign body sensation
- Red or watery eyes
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye fatigue
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Discomfort when wearing contacts
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book your appointment to find relief today.
Book AppointmentWhat Is Dry Eye?
Dry is exactly what it sounds like—it occurs when your eyes aren’t producing enough lubrication to keep them moist and comfortable.
There are 2 main types of dry eye, aqueous deficiency dry eye and evaporative dry eye. The first—and least common—occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears. The second occurs when the tears lack the appropriate chemical composition to be effective.
Aqueous Tear Deficiency Dry Eye
Reasons for decreased tear production are varied and may include:
- Contact lens wear
- Normal ageing
- Medications such as antihistamines or antidepressants
- Medical conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s Syndrome
- Recent laser vision correction surgery
Evaporative Dry Eye
High-quality tears depend on a balanced and effective tear film. The tear film is made up of 3 layers:
- The mucus layer, which helps spread the tears over the surface of the eye.
- The water layer, which helps hydrate the eye.
- The oil layer, which helps stop moisture from evaporating too quickly
Dry eyes can result from an imbalance in any of these 3 layers.
Both the top and bottom of your eyelids are lined with tiny, oil-producing glands. These glands are called the meibomian glands. Blockages in the meibomian glands might lead to reduction in the amount of oil produced, causing dry eyes.
When evaluating dry eyes, it’s also important to examine the meibomian glands carefully. If they are not functioning well, there may be other factors at work, such as lid hygiene or inflammation.
Finding Relief from Dry Eye
No matter the cause of your dry eye, relief is available. We offer customized treatment options tailored to your unique needs. Get support for clear, healthy vision today.
Book AppointmentCome Visit Us
You can find us at 3211 152 Street, with plenty of parking in front of the building. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our practice!
Our Address
- 3211 152 Street #109
- Surrey, British Columbia V3S 3M1
Contact Information
- Phone: 604-370-2425
- Fax: 604-370-2434
- Email: [email protected]
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
*We offer emergency eye care services, so don’t hesitate to visit us if you need assistance.