There’s a big difference between someone who needs the occasional eye drops because they’re experiencing temporary dryness, due to a change in climate or environment, and someone who is chronically suffering from irritable, dry eyes.
If you’re reading this, it is likely that you’re the latter.
But you may still be wondering: what’s the big difference between the two? How do I know I need to seek help and treatment?
This checklist will help you identify if you suffer from Dry Eye:
☑ Red, burning, gritty and uncomfortable eyes
☑ Discharge
☑ Stinging
☑ Fatigued eyes
☑ Blurred vision
☑ Sensitivity to light
☑ Intolerance to contact lenses
☑ Difficulty driving at night
What causes Dry Eye?
Dry eyes can come from low tear production, which leaves the eye with inadequate lubrication or inadequate oil glands, causing the tears to evaporate from the surface of the eye.
This can be caused by many factors, such as:
- Aging
- Menopause
- Medication
- Medical conditions (autoimmune disorders, sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Contact lens wear
- Smoking
- Indoor environment: air conditioning, ceiling fans, forced air heating systems.
- Outdoor environment: dry or windy climates
- Computer use
How do I treat Dry Eye?
Your optometrist will do an extensive eye exam to find out what is causing your eyes to be dry and determine an appropriate treatment plan.
If you are not producing enough tears, artificial tears or prescription medication will be a solution. If the oily part of your tears are the problem, taking Omega 3's and warming your oil glands with a heating mask will help.
Overall, a healthy eyecare routine involves taking Omega 3's to keep your oil glands healthy and cleaning your eyelashes morning and night with a safe cleanser. Take care of your eyes daily and you will see the difference!
Wishing you well,
The Eye Drop Shop Team xo
Eye-Safe Beauty Swaps for Fall Makeup Trends
This season, you don’t have to choose between fashion and eye health...
Sudden Canada Post Strike: What this means for you
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has launched a national strike, resulting in an immediate shutdown of Canada Post operations. This means that mail and parcels will not be processed or delivered during the strike, and some post offices will remain closed until further notice...
Dry Eye & Red Light Therapy: What You Need to Know
Millions of people worldwide deal with dry eye disease, experiencing burning, scratchy, or watery eyes that make daily life uncomfortable. For some, traditional treatments are not enough — and that’s where red light therapy for eyes (also known as photobiomodulation) comes in...