Dry Eye Treatment

Dry Eye Diagnosis and Treatment with Our Optometrists in Brighton, Trenton, and Belleville

Most of us have experienced what it’s like to have dry eyes from time to time. At Dr. Coward & Associates, our team of optometrists in Trenton, Brighton, and Belleville are happy to help you or a family member find some relief from the irritating symptoms of dry eye.

What is Dry Eye Syndrome? 

Dry eye syndrome occurs because of an inadequate or insufficient tear film layer. Tears normally cover your eyes with a thin layer to keep them moist and protected. This can happen due to a number of reasons, including: 

• Meibomian gland dysfunction: Small glands, which normally secrete oil into your tears to prevent rapid evaporation, are not working properly.
• Sjögren’s syndrome: An autoimmune disorder causing dry eyes and dry mouth; it’s often present with other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
• Eye allergies: Allergens like pet dander, dust, pollen, mold, smoke, chemicals, and even make-up and contact lens solution can lead to dry eyes.
• Eye trauma and dysfunction: This includes anything that causes to damage or scarring of tear ducts and glands (e.g., radiation) or anything that affects a person’s ability to blink and close their eyes at night (e.g., facial nerve palsy, stroke, Parkinson’s disease).

Excessive use of a computer or other device can also lead to dry eyes since we tend to blink less when using digital technology. Other risk factors for dry eye include menopause, advancing age, smoking, frequent flying, and contact lens use.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Here are a few classic signs of dry eyes:

• Itchy, burning, red, dry, and irritated eyes
• Eyes that feel heavy, fatigued, achy, or sore
• The feeling of something stuck in the eye, or eye grittiness
• Watery discharge which can leave a crusty residue
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision

The Role of the Optometrist in Detecting & Treating Dry Eye Syndrome

Determining the underlying cause of your dry eye symptoms is essential to appropriate treatment. Our Ontario optometrist team can diagnose your underlying cause through a combination of tests, physical examination, and personal and medical history taking. Based on our diagnosis, your individualized treatment plan may include:

• Patient education to facilitate helpful lifestyle changes (e.g., smoking cessation, computer use habits, avoidance of allergens)
• Medications to relieve eye inflammation and restore adequate eye moisture
• Pre- and post-operative care if operative procedures are elected

Are You Suffering from Dry Eye Symptoms? Contact our Optometrists in Trenton, Brighton, or Belleville for Relief

If you need effective treatment for dry eye symptoms, contact Dr. Bruce Coward & Associates today.