Do your eyes feel dry, itchy, or red? Is wearing contact lenses uncomfortable? Dry eyes can be bothersome, but there are ways to make them feel better.

Usually, Dry Eye Syndrome happens because tiny glands in your eyelids that make a special oil get blocked. This special oil helps keep the liquid in your tears from disappearing too fast and keeps your eyes moist. When your eyes lack this oil, they can become dry, itchy, and might even turn red, making them more vulnerable to infections.

The following are the most common symptoms of dry eye syndrome:

Eyelid Inflammation

Sometimes, when your eyelids get all swollen and inflamed, a condition called blepharitis, it can make dry eye syndrome worse. This happens because the swelling and inflammation can stop the tiny glands in your eyelids from producing the oil your eyes need. If you have this problem, your eye doctor might give you antibiotics or special eye drops to treat your inflamed eyelids.

Eye Redness

If your eyes look red or bloodshot, it’s a good idea to see an eye doctor promptly to check if it’s a bacterial or viral infection like pink eye. If the redness is because of dry eyes, your eye doctor will suggest the best treatment based on what’s causing your dry eyes. 

While you can use over-the-counter artificial tears to reduce redness by making the blood vessels in your eyes smaller, this effect doesn’t last long, and it doesn’t fix the real reason your eyes are red.

Corneal Damage

The moisture in your eyes serves as a natural defense against infections by washing away bacteria and other harmful germs. If dry eyes are left untreated, they can cause lasting damage to the clear front part of your eye, known as the cornea. 

This condition is called ocular surface disease. Your eye doctor might give you corticosteroids, which are good at reducing inflammation in the short term. However, using them for too long can raise the pressure inside your eye, so it’s essential to follow your doctor’s guidance carefully.

Discomfort Wearing Contact Lenses

If your eyes are dry and irritated, it can be really uncomfortable, and sometimes, wearing contact lenses can be tough or even impossible! But don’t worry; your eye doctor can talk to you about different treatments to make it easier for you to enjoy the benefits of contact lenses.

While regular over-the-counter eye drops can provide some short-term relief by adding moisture to your eyes, they might not give you the complete comfort you need to wear contact lenses comfortably. Your eye doctor can prescribe special eye drops or offer effective treatments at their office to target the root cause of your symptoms and help you wear your contact lenses more comfortably.

Feel free to ask us about special contact lenses designed to keep your eyes better hydrated compared to regular ones. We’re here to help you find the right solution for your eye comfort.

Eye Dryness – Too Few Tears

Dry eye syndrome usually happens because your eyes either don’t make enough tears or the tears they produce aren’t of good quality. While using eye drops or artificial tears can give you short-term relief, it’s important to talk to your eye doctor about the best treatment for lasting comfort.

You don’t have to endure dry eyes any longer! Our team of eye experts in Brampton West will figure out why your eyes are dry and recommend the right treatment just for you. Feel free to reach out to schedule your appointment; we’re here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

A: Dry Eye Syndrome can be caused by various factors, including:

• Getting older, especially if there are hormonal changes like menopause involved.
• Certain medical conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome, eye allergies, and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Taking certain medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, antidepressants, or hormone replacement therapy.
• Inflammation of the eyelids, like blepharitis or problems with the meibomian glands.
• Not blinking enough, which can happen when you use digital screens for long periods or engage in activities like reading.
• Exposure to dry or polluted air and excessive heat.
• A deficiency in Vitamin A.

These factors can contribute to dry eye problems, but visit an optometry clinic can help identify the specific cause and determine the best treatment for your condition.

Q: What are the best home remedies for dry eye?

A: – To help alleviate dry eyes , here are some practical tips:

• Use a Humidifier: Place a humidifier in your home to increase the moisture in the air.
• Protect Your Eyes Outdoors: Wear high-quality sunglasses, preferably wraparound-style, to shield your eyes from harsh winds and block out harmful UV rays.
• Take Screen Breaks: If you spend a lot of time on digital devices, remember to take regular breaks to give your eyes a rest.
• Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to your eyes regularly to soothe dryness and promote moisture
• Blink Often: Make a conscious effort to blink frequently. Blinking helps distribute moisture over your eyes.
• Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking can worsen dry eye symptoms.
• Use Prescribed Eye Drops: Follow your eye doctor’s recommendations for using prescribed eye drops.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 oils in your diet, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

These lifestyle changes and practices can help manage dry eye symptoms and promote overall eye health.