Dry Eye
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
Dry Eye is characterized as an ocular surface disease. The ocular surface of your eye, or tear film, is composed of 3 layers: an oil layer made in your lids’ meibomian glands, an aqueous layer composed of water and protein, and a mucus layer mad in the conjunctiva.
When all three layers are functioning optimally, you have well-moisturized eyes. You probably don’t even notice your blinking.
However, if these components are not functioning well, chances are you’re experiencing symptoms of Dry Eye. Examples of dysfunction include an unstable tear film and/or clogged meibomian glands.
SYMPTOMS
You may have dry eye if your eyes regularly feel one or a combination of the following symptoms:
- Redness
- Scratchy or gritty feeling
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Excessive watery eyes or tearing (this may seem counterintuitive but it is a natural response to compensate for the eyes dryness)
- Fluctuating vision
CAUSES
Multiple causes can contribute to dry eye, including:
- The natural aging process
- Hormonal changes
- Exposure to certain environmental factors such as dry or dusty climates
- UV exposure and environmental irritants such as pollen
- Contact lens use
- Laser surgery
- Cataract surgery
- Medications such as antihistamines, oral contraceptives, or antidepressants
- Autoimmune diseases such as arthritis or Sjögren’s syndrome
DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosing Dry Eye begins with a comprehensive eye exam.
The optometrist will check the health of your eyes and ask a series of questions regarding symptoms, general health, lifestyle, work/home environment, etc.
Further testing may include vital dye staining and imaging of the meibomian glands (the oil glands within the eyelids).
Next, you will meet with an ocular specialist to discuss your treatment options and create a customized Dry Eye Management plan.
Diagnosing Dry Eye begins with a comprehensive eye exam or consultation with one of our optometrists.
TREAMENT
At Oak Bay Optometry, we’re excited to offer improved treatments to optimize meibomian function and help your ocular surface layers function at their best.
Your Dry Eye treatment plan is unique to your needs and the severity of your Dry Eye. Your optometrist and ocular hygienist work together to create a customized at-home care routine and may recommend the use of in-office technology for more acute cases.
IN-OFFICE TECHNOLOGY
Our in-office treatments include Intense Pulse Light, Radio Frequency, Zest, and iLux.
AT-HOME CARE
At-home care includes the use of lubricating preservative-free eyedrops, gels, or ointments, hot compress eye mask, eye-lid hygiene, and suggested lifestyle changes.
FAQ
How do I know if I have Dry Eye?
You may have Dry Eye if your eyes regularly feel one or a combination of the following symptoms:
- Redness
- Scratchy or gritty feeling
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Excessive watering or tearing (this may seem counterintuitive but it is a natural response to compensate for the eyes dryness)
- Fluctuation vision
Ultimately, Dry Eye is diagnosed by an optometrist. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, visit one of our optometrists for a consultation.
Can Dry Eye affect my vision?
If Dry Eye is left untreated, it can be harmful to your eyes. Excessive Dry Eye can damage the sensitive corneal tissues of the eye causing scarring and ultimately impaired vision.
Fluctuating vision is a symptom of Dry Eye that may be fully or partially relieved with treatment.
Can I wear contact lenses if I have Dry Eye?
Dry Eye can make wearing contact lenses worse due to increased irritability and greater risk of eye infection.
If you’re a contact lens wearer and are experiencing Dry Eye symptoms, visit your optometrist to discuss the type of contact lenses you’re wearing and treatment options to help relieve symptoms.
Is Dry Eye harmful to my eyes?
Left untreated, excessive Dry Eye can damage the sensitive corneal tissues of the eye causing scarring and ultimately impaired vision. Not only is this harmful to your eyes but can negatively affect your quality of life.
If diagnosed with Dry Eye, it is important to follow your optometrist’s directions to help relieve symptoms and maintain the health of your eyes.
Can you fix Dry Eye naturally?
Depending on the severity of your Dry Eye, you may not require medication or in-office treatments.