Dry eye syndrome is a common but often overlooked condition that can cause irritation, blurry vision, and discomfort. If left untreated it can seriously disrupt your life and lead to more serious ocular complications. Whether due to environmental factors, screen use, or underlying eye conditions, dry eyes can impact daily life.
At Bridlewood Eye Care in Calgary, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye syndrome with advanced treatment options designed to provide lasting relief.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Eyes
What Causes Dry Eyes?
There are many factors that contribute to dry eye syndrome, including:
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When the glands responsible for producing the oil layer of tears become blocked, tears evaporate too quickly, causing dryness.
- Screen Time: Studies show that staring at screens reduces blink rates, leading to tear evaporation and eye strain.
- Environmental Factors: Wind, air conditioning, and low humidity can dry out the eyes.
- Aging & Hormonal Changes: Tear production decreases naturally with age, particularly for women experiencing hormonal shifts.
- Medications & Health Conditions: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eyes?
Common signs of dry eye syndrome include:
- Burning, stinging, or gritty sensations in the eyes
- Redness and irritation
- Light sensitivity
- Blurry vision that improves with blinking
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Excessive tearing (a response to dryness)
If you experience these symptoms frequently, a comprehensive eye exam at Bridlewood Eye Care can help determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment Recommendations for Dry Eyes
Artificial Tears & Prescription Eye Drops
Lubricating drops can provide immediate relief. For moderate to severe cases, prescription drops that help increase tear production or reduce inflammation may be recommended.
Warm Compresses & Eyelid Hygiene
Applying a warm compress to the eyelids can help unclog oil glands and improve tear quality. Cleaning the eyelids daily can also reduce irritation.
Lifestyle Changes for Digital Eye Strain
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Blink more often while using screens.
- Use blue light filters to reduce eye strain.
Omega-3 Supplements & Hydration
Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet (found in fish oil and flaxseed) can improve tear production. Staying well-hydrated also supports overall eye health.
Advanced Dry Eye Treatments at Bridlewood Eye Care
For patients with persistent dry eye symptoms, we offer specialized dry eye treatments such as:
- Punctal Plugs: Small inserts placed in the tear ducts to retain moisture on the eye’s surface.
- Meibomian Gland Expression: A treatment to unblock the oil-producing glands in the eyelids.
Why Choose Bridlewood Eye Care for Dry Eye Treatment?
At Bridlewood Eye Care in Calgary, we provide:
- Comprehensive dry eye evaluations to determine the root cause of symptoms
- Personalized treatment plans using the latest research and technology
- Ongoing patient support to ensure lasting relief and improved eye health
If dry eyes are affecting your quality of life, don’t wait to seek treatment. Schedule a consultation with Bridlewood Eye Care today and experience long-term relief!
