Dry Eye Clinic

Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eyes, also known as dry eye disease or dry eye syndrome, involves a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication on the surface of the eye. The following symptoms leave people looking for suitable dry eye treatments:

• Scratchy, irritated eyes
• Redness
• Itchiness
• Light sensitivity
• Blurred vision
• Excessive watering

Prevalence and Risk Factors

According to a review published in the Journal of Global Health, the prevalence of dry eye disease ranges between 5 percent to 50 percent in different populations around the world. Dry eye disease is more prevalent in drier climates, such as we have in Southern Alberta. Risk factors for developing dry eye syndrome include:

• Aging. Being older than 50 makes you more likely to develop dry eyes. 
• Female sex. Dry eye syndrome is more common in women, especially if they’re currently experiencing hormonal changes.
• Frequent flying. Airplane cabin air is notoriously dry and can lead to you seeking dry eye treatments, especially among frequent flyers.
• Contact lenses. Contact lens usage or a history of laser refractive surgery both increase your chances of dry eye.
• Diet that’s low in vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids. Changes in your diet can affect your risk of developing dry eyes.
• Medications. Certain medications such as those that treat high blood pressure, allergies, depression as well as hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives can increase dry eye symptoms
• Computer use. We are seeing dry eye disease in younger patients due to excessive time spent using smartphones, tablets and laptop computers
• Health conditions. Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid disease, Lupus and Sjogren’s syndrome among others are strongly associated with dry eye disease

Complications That May Arise From Dry Eyes

What can happen if you have dry eyes and don’t seek out a dry eye clinic? 



• You can develop an eye infection if you don’t seek dry eye treatments. Tears serve a protective purpose. Without enough moisture on the surface of your eyes, you may be more likely to develop an infection.
• You can damage the surface of your eyes if you don’t visit a dry eye clinic. Severe dry eyes may lead to eye inflammation, corneal ulcers, corneal surface abrasion, or even vision loss.
• You may find it harder to perform everyday activities. Without dry eye treatments, you may find it challenging to complete simple tasks, such as reading, using a computer, or driving.

How Do You Prevent Dry Eyes?

The following are some preventative steps you take to lower your risk of developing dry eyes: 



• Avoid blowing air into your eyes. Keep hair dryers, car heaters, fans, and air conditioners directed away from your eyes. 
• Take breaks. Close your eyes for a few minutes or blink repeatedly for a few seconds when performing visually-intensive and prolonged tasks. 
• Lower your computer screen. Position your computer screen below eye level to prevent your eyes from opening completely to see the screen. 
• Limit your computer time. As dry eye disease is strongly connected to how much time you spend staring at electronic screens, cut this back when possible.
• Stay away from smoke. Smoke, including cigarette smoke, is known to worsen dry eye symptoms. 
• Drink more water. Proper hydration is certainly connected to a healthy “tear film” which is protective against dry eye disease.

When Should You Consult With a Dry Eye Clinic? 

Seeing a professional is advisable when your symptoms are prolonged or you don’t know what’s causing your symptoms. A trained professional from a dry eye clinic can perform a comprehensive eye exam, determine the cause of your dry eyes, and recommend appropriate dry eye treatments.

Dry Eye Disease is a rapidly developing field of study. Not all clinics have the right tools and education to properly manage this complex condition. At MVO we have been actively studying dry eye disease since 2015. Be sure you are working with the best experts in the field! Take this Dry Eye Questionnaire to find out if you are at risk.