What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when the eyes aren’t properly lubricated. This can happen as a result of insufficient or inadequate tears, usually due to issues with the oil produced by the meibomian glands.
This tear instability can lead to inflammation and damage to the eye, often leaving your eyes feeling uncomfortable. Dry eye can be chronic, sometimes occurring as a result of aging, but it can also occur if you spend too long staring at a screen or in a dry, air-conditioned room.
Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments to help you manage dry eye and alleviate the symptoms that come with it.
Treatments for dry eyes may make you more comfortable. These treatments can include lifestyle changes and eyedrops. You’ll likely need to take these measures indefinitely to control the symptoms of dry eyes.
Ditch the Itch
The first step to getting treatment is to come in for a comprehensive dry eye evaluation. This test is quick, non-invasive, and incredibly useful in finding a treatment that works for you.
Artificial Tears
Artificial tears, or over-the-counter eye drops, are designed to mimic the natural tears our eyes produce. These drops help temporarily relieve dry eye symptoms but can be used by most people to resolve dryness or irritation in the eye.
Medicated Eye Drops
Medicated eye drops offer similar relief as artificial tears, but you’ll need a prescription from your optometrist to get them. Depending on your symptoms, your optometrist may recommend medicated eye drops to help alleviate your dry eye symptoms.
Warm Compresses
Using a warm compress can help stimulate tear and meibum oil production for the eyes. This is an effective, convenient method to temporarily relieve dry eye symptoms.
Omega-3s
Incorporating omega-3s into your diet can help protect your vision and relieve some dry eye symptoms in the long term. It can help with oil production and adequate tear production. Some natural sources of omega-3s include:
- Fish & seafood, such as salmon or tuna
- Nuts & seeds, such as flaxseed or walnuts
- Plant oils, such as soybean oil
- Fortified foods, such as certain brands of eggs
You Don’t Have to Suffer from Dry Eye
We’re here to help you see clearly and comfortably. Book in today to get an evaluation.
Our Location in Kitchener
- 885 Glasgow St
- Kitchener, ON N2M 2N7
Specs Appeal in Kitchener, Ontario is located on the corner of Glasgow Street and Fischer-Hallman Road. There is free parking directly in front of our practice for your convenience.
Contact Information
- Phone: 519.741.1233
Hours of Operation
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Our Location in Cambridge
- 534 Hespeler Road
- Cambridge, ON N1R 6J7
Specs Appeal in Cambridge, Ontario is located on Hespeler Road, right across from the Starbucks. There is free parking directly in front of our practice for your convenience.
Contact Information
- Phone: 519.624.9220
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed