Navigating Dry Eyes with Expertise

EyeCU Optometry offers tailored solutions for dry eyes in Calgary, Alberta. Explore our dry eye disease treatments for lasting relief from dry eye syndrome.

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Finding Relief from Dry Eye Disease at EyeCU Optometry

Dry eye disease is a prevalent condition that affects many. It is characterized by insufficient tear production or rapid tear evaporation. This can lead to discomfort, visual disturbances, and, if not appropriately managed, longer-term ocular surface issues.

We are passionate about helping you understand this condition and offer effective strategies for dry eye relief.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease (DED)

Identifying the symptoms of dry eye disease is the first step toward finding relief. Common signs include:

Persistent Dryness: A constant feeling of dryness, often described as gritty or sandy, as if foreign particles are in the eyes.
Burning Sensation: An uncomfortable burning or stinging sensation in the eyes.
Excessive Tearing: Ironically, dry eye disease can trigger an overproduction of tears as the eyes try to compensate for the dryness.
Blurry Vision: Activities requiring sustained focus may cause temporary blurring of vision.
Light Sensitivity: Sufferers may experience an increased sensitivity to light, leading to discomfort in bright environments.
Eye Fatigue and Redness: Dry eye syndrome can cause your eyes to feel tired, especially after visual tasks, and may look red or inflamed.

Identifying the Causes of DED

Effective management begins with identifying the potential causes of dry eye disease:

Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age, making dry eye disease more common among older adults.
Environmental Factors: Dry or windy climates, exposure to smoke, and prolonged screen use can exacerbate symptoms.
Health Conditions: Diseases like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can increase the risk of developing dry eyes.
Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines and antidepressants, may reduce tear production.
Hormonal Changes: Changes during menopause or pregnancy can affect tear production and contribute to dry eyes.
Eyelid and Gland Issues: Conditions affecting eyelid function or the meibomian glands can lead to dry eye symptoms.

Treatments for Dry Eye Disease in Calgary, Alberta

At EyeCU Optometry, we provide a broad array of dry eye disease relief methods to combat dry eye symptoms and enhance the health of your ocular surface. Understanding that each case of dry eye can vary in severity and underlying causes, our approach is tailored to meet your individual needs. We aim to alleviate discomfort, improve vision clarity, and ultimately enhance your quality of life.

1. Artificial Tears for Immediate Relief

Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops are the first line of defence against the discomfort of dry eyes, offering quick and effective relief. These drops help to supplement your natural tear production, easing symptoms of dryness and irritation. For many patients, artificial tears are essential to daily eye care, providing comfort and preventing further irritation.

2. Prescription Eye Drops

When over-the-counter solutions are insufficient, prescription eye drops can offer a more targeted approach to managing dry eye disease. These medications may work by reducing ocular inflammation, increasing tear production, or both, thereby offering longer-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms. Our team at EyeCU Optometry will work with you to determine if prescription drops are the right choice for your dry eye condition and ensure you understand their use and benefits.

3. TempSure Envi’s Radiofrequency Treatment

TempSure Envi uses advanced radiofrequency (RF) technology to gently heat the skin around the eyes, targeting and unclogging the meibomian glands. This non-invasive therapy alleviates uncomfortable dry eye symptoms and stimulates the natural production of collagen, improving the health and resilience of the skin around your eyes.

4. Punctal Plugs to Preserve Moisture

For individuals whose tears evaporate too quickly or are inadequately produced, punctal plugs offer an effective solution. These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to reduce tear drainage, allowing the eyes to retain moisture for longer. This procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and can significantly improve eye comfort by maintaining a more natural level of lubrication.

5. Heat Masks for Soothing Dry Eye Relief

Heat masks provide a comforting solution for those suffering from dry eye disease, especially when meibomian gland dysfunction is a factor. By applying gentle, consistent warmth, these masks help to liquefy blocked oils in the eyelid glands, facilitating natural tear production and improving eye lubrication.

Easy to use and non-invasive, heat masks can be a part of your daily routine to enhance ocular surface health. Heat masks offer immediate relief from the symptoms of dry eyes.

6. Addressing Underlying Health Issues

A holistic approach to treating dry eye disease often involves looking beyond the symptoms to the root cause. Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can contribute to dry eye symptoms; therefore, managing these underlying issues is essential.

Our comprehensive dry eye care plan includes evaluating your overall health to identify any contributing factors to your dry eye disease. This ensures a tailored treatment plan that addresses both symptoms and causes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Eye Disease in Calgary

Can dry eye disease cause permanent vision damage?

While dry eye disease primarily causes discomfort, it's rare for it to lead to permanent vision loss. However, without proper management, severe cases can affect the health of the eye's surface and potentially impair vision quality. Early treatment is crucial in preventing complications and maintaining healthy eyes.

Are there specific activities that worsen dry eye symptoms?

Yes, activities that require prolonged focus, such as reading, using a computer, or driving for extended periods, can worsen dry eye symptoms. This is often due to reduced blink rates during these activities, which can accelerate tear evaporation. Taking regular breaks to rest your eyes and using artificial tears can help manage these symptoms.

Is it safe to wear contact lenses if I have dry eyes?

Many people with dry eyes can successfully wear contact lenses, especially with the advances in lens materials designed to retain moisture. It's essential to consult with your eye care provider at EyeCU Optometry to choose the best lens type for your condition and discuss strategies for comfortable lens wear, such as using lubricating eye drops or limiting wear time.

Can changes in diet help manage dry eye symptoms?

Yes, dietary changes can play a role in managing dry eye symptoms. Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and in flaxseed oil, can help improve tear quality and reduce dryness. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day is also beneficial for maintaining adequate tear production.

How often should I have my eyes checked if I have dry eye disease?

The frequency of eye exams can vary depending on the severity of your dry eye disease and how well your current treatment plan is managing your symptoms. Typically, we recommend an annual check-up; however, some patients may require more frequent visits to EyeCU Optometry to adjust their treatment plan and ensure their eyes remain healthy and comfortable.

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Eye CU Optometry Ltd

Unit 929-5075 Falconridge Blvd NE, 2nd Floor- Magnolia Hall
Calgary, AB T3J 3K9

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed