Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. At Ideal Eye Care in Mississauga, we regularly see patients struggling with the discomfort and frustration of dry eyes. This comprehensive guide explains what causes dry eye syndrome and the most effective treatment options available today.
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome (also called dry eye disease or keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is a chronic condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. This leads to inadequate lubrication of the eye surface, causing discomfort and potentially damaging the eye’s surface over time.
Healthy tears contain a precise mixture of water, oils, mucus, and antibodies that keep your eyes moist, protected, and clear. When this delicate balance is disrupted, dry eye symptoms develop.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome
If you experience any of the following symptoms persistently, you may be suffering from dry eye syndrome:
- Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Redness of the eye
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Difficulty driving at night
- Watery eyes (the body’s response to irritation)
- Blurred vision or eye fatigue
- Feeling like something is in your eye
Main Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can develop for various reasons. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.
1. Decreased Tear Production
As we age, tear production naturally decreases. This is particularly common in people over 50, especially women going through hormonal changes during menopause. Certain medical conditions can also reduce tear production:
- Sjögren’s syndrome (an autoimmune disorder)
- Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Vitamin A deficiency
- Radiation therapy to the head and neck
2. Increased Tear Evaporation
Several factors can increase the rate at which your tears evaporate:
- Meibomian gland dysfunction – These oil-producing glands along your eyelids can become blocked, reducing the oil component in tears that prevents evaporation.
- Environmental factors – Wind, smoke, dry air, and high altitudes can accelerate tear evaporation.
- Extended screen time – When using computers, smartphones, or reading, we blink less frequently (about 1/3 our normal rate), leading to more rapid tear evaporation.
- Indoor environment – Air conditioning, heating systems, and fans can create dry air that increases evaporation.
3. Medication Side Effects
Many commonly prescribed medications can reduce tear production as a side effect:
- Antihistamines and decongestants
- Antidepressants
- Blood pressure medications
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Acne medications (isotretinoin)
- Certain pain relievers
4. Eyelid Problems
Structural issues with the eyelids can affect tear distribution:
- Ectropion (outward-turning eyelid)
- Entropion (inward-turning eyelid)
- Incomplete blinking
5. Other Risk Factors
Additional factors that increase your risk of developing dry eye syndrome include:
- Contact lens wear – Long-term use of contact lenses can contribute to dry eye syndrome.
- Refractive eye surgeries – Procedures like LASIK can temporarily decrease tear production.
- Chronic inflammation – Ongoing inflammation of the eyelids or eye surface.
Diagnosis of Dry Eye Syndrome
At Ideal Eye Care in Mississauga, our optometrists use several diagnostic tests to assess tear production and quality:
- Schirmer’s test – Measures the amount of moisture in your eye using small strips of filter paper.
- Tear break-up time (TBUT) – Evaluates how quickly your tears evaporate.
- Corneal staining – Uses special dyes to reveal damaged areas on the eye’s surface.
- Meibomian gland evaluation – Examines the condition of the oil-producing glands in your eyelids.
- Tear osmolarity – Measures the concentration of particles in your tears.
A comprehensive eye examination is essential for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
Effective Treatment Options for Dry Eye Syndrome
Treatment for dry eye syndrome depends on its cause and severity. Our Mississauga optometrists at Ideal Eye Care develop personalized treatment plans that may include:
At-Home Treatments and Lifestyle Changes
1. Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops
- Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide temporary relief
- Preservative-free formulations are recommended for frequent use
- Different viscosities are available for different levels of dryness
2. Environmental Modifications
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air
- Avoid direct air from fans, heaters, or air conditioners
- Take regular breaks during screen time (follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
- Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to protect from wind and sun
3. Eyelid Hygiene
- Regularly clean your eyelids with mild cleanser and warm water
- Apply warm compresses to help unclog oil glands
- Gently massage eyelids to express oil from the meibomian glands
4. Dietary Changes
- Increase omega-3 fatty acid intake through fish, flaxseed, or supplements
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can be dehydrating
Professional Treatments
1. Prescription Medications
- Anti-inflammatory medications like Restasis or Xiidra
- Steroid eye drops for short-term inflammation control
- Medications to fight eyelid inflammation
- Autologous serum drops (made from the patient’s own blood)
2. Punctal Plugs
- Tiny silicone or collagen plugs inserted into tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too quickly
- Temporary or permanent options available
- Simple, painless in-office procedure
3. Meibomian Gland Therapy
- LipiFlow treatment: uses heat and pressure to clear blocked oil glands
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy: reduces inflammation around the eyes
- Meibomian gland expression: manual clearing of blocked glands
4. Specialty Contact Lenses
- Scleral lenses that vault over the cornea and hold a reservoir of fluid
- Provide relief for severe dry eye cases
5. Amniotic Membrane Therapy
- Placement of a thin membrane that promotes healing for severe dry eye
Comprehensive Dry Eye Management at Ideal Eye Care
At Ideal Eye Care in Mississauga, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye syndrome with a comprehensive approach:
- Thorough Evaluation: We begin with a detailed assessment of your symptoms, medical history, and potential contributing factors.
- Advanced Diagnostics: Using state-of-the-art technology, we evaluate your tear quality, quantity, and the condition of your eye surface and oil glands.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your specific condition, we develop a customized treatment protocol that addresses the root causes of your dry eyes.
- Ongoing Management: Dry eye syndrome is often a chronic condition requiring continuous management. We provide regular follow-ups to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
- Patient Education: We help you understand your condition and teach you techniques to manage symptoms effectively at home.
When to See Your Optometrist
Don’t wait to seek professional help if you experience:
- Persistent eye discomfort
- Redness that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter drops
- Pain or sensitivity that interferes with daily activities
- Vision changes associated with dry eye symptoms
Early intervention is key to preventing complications and finding relief. Untreated severe dry eye can lead to eye inflammation, corneal damage, and even vision impairment.
Take Action Against Dry Eye Syndrome Today
Living with the discomfort of dry eyes isn’t necessary. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people find significant relief from their symptoms.
At Ideal Eye Care in Mississauga, our experienced optometrists specialize in dry eye therapy and can help you find the best solution for your specific condition. We understand how dry eye syndrome can impact your quality of life, and we’re committed to helping you achieve comfortable, healthy vision.
Call us today at +905 507 9752 to schedule your comprehensive dry eye assessment and take the first step toward relief.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Each patient’s condition is unique and requires personalized evaluation and treatment.
