Treatments for Dry Eyes in Toronto
Dry eye disease is a common concern caused by insufficient tear quantity or poor tear quality, which may be a mild annoyance or a chronic problem that affects your work performance and limits recreational activities. Dr. Raymond Stein at Bochner Eye Institute performs tear film analysis to identify the problem causing your dry eyes and create a treatment plan to improve your symptoms.
The most common cause of dry eyes is meibomian gland dysfunction. These glands, which are found in your upper and lower eyelids, secrete oil for good tear quality. Meibomian gland dysfunction can be caused by an eye infection, certain medications, contact lenses, prolonged screen use and, most notably, a drier climate in the winter.
LipiFlow is a new treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction that improves tear quality by applying heat and massage to the inner and outer surfaces of your upper and lower eyelids to remove blockages. A warm washcloth may ease your symptoms along with rinsing your eyelids with mild baby shampoo and warm water to increase oil flow from meibomian glands.
Bochner Eye Institute also offers Restasis, a topical medication that increases tear production and punctal plugs that reduce tear drainage through micro-inserts in the eyelid channels.
Tips to Ease Dry Eyes
Lubricating eye drops or artificial tears can temporarily relieve dry eye symptoms, but a few lifestyle alterations may improve the gritty, irritating sensation, including:
- Avoid dry environments and sit away from heat sources such as fireplaces and hot air vents.
- Use a humidifier in your home or office to increase moisture in the air.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Don’t direct fans, car air vents or anything that blows air at your face.
- Limit your alcohol intake and avoid smoking as these can lower tear quality and increase eye irritation.
- Take breaks from screens using the 20-20-20 rule of looking 20 feet away from the screen for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
- Eat foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and walnuts or take fish oil supplements.
- If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar as high blood sugar can damage the ocular nerve and lead to poor tear production.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and debris outside.
Schedule Your Eye Exam at Bochner Eye Institute
Dry eyes can significantly impact your everyday life, especially in winter. Contact Bochner Eye Institute in Toronto today to schedule your eye exam and tear film analysis.