Irritating, Uncomfortable Eyes
We use our eyes all day long, but we rarely think of them unless they’re uncomfortable—and then they’re all we think about. Adults might turn to redness-relieving eye drops, while kids often rub their eyes. But neither strategy tackles the true cause of tired, scratchy eyes.
Dry eye is a chronic, common, and uncomfortable condition impacting around 6 million Canadians. Not only is it irritating, but it can really put a damper on your daily activities. Dry eyes can decrease your quality of life and lower productivity.
But relief is available! Book an appointment today for a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose your dry eye. If left untreated, dry eye can lead to long-term infections and eye damage down the road. Anytime your eyes are uncomfortable, it’s best to pay us a visit and rule out more worrisome conditions.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms generally occur in both eyes at the same time and can include:
- Stinging or burning
- Gritty or scratchy feeling
- Foreign body sensation
- Red or watery eyes
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye fatigue
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Discomfort when wearing contacts
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book your appointment to explore dry eye treatment options today.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is exactly what it sounds like—it occurs when your eyes aren’t producing enough lubrication to keep them moist and comfortable.
There are 2 main types of dry eye. The first—and least common—occurs when the eyes simply don’t produce enough tears. The second occurs when the tears are of poor quality.
Reasons for decreased tear production are varied and might include:
- Contact lens wear
- Normal aging
- Medications such as antihistamines or antidepressants
- Medical conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s Syndrome
- Recent laser vision correction surgery
Good-quality tears depend on a balanced and effective tear film. The tear film is made up of 3 layers—a mucus layer to spread the tears over the surface of the eye, a water layer to hydrate the eye, and an oil layer to keep the water from evaporating too quickly. If there’s an imbalance in the tear film, dry eye can result.
The tiny glands along the top and bottom edges of the eyelids, called the meibomian glands, are responsible for producing the oil layer of your tear film. Blockages in these glands can cause a reduction in the amount of oil produced, leading to dry eyes.
When we diagnose your dry eye, we’ll also look at the condition of your meibomian glands and recommend treatment options if they’re not functioning properly.
Finding Relief From Dry Eye
No matter the cause of your dry eye, relief is available. We offer customized treatment options tailored to your unique needs. Start on the path to clear, comfortable vision today!
Comprehensive Eye Exams in Kamloops
Clear vision starts with a thorough eye exam, and we provide complete exams for every age, from your child’s first eye check to ongoing care for adults and seniors. We offer:
- Children’s eye exams to support learning and healthy development
- Adult and senior exams that monitor changes in vision and eye health over time
- Diabetic eye exams to detect early signs of complications before they affect sight
- Contact lens exams and fittings for comfortable, clear vision with the right lenses for your lifestyle
Our doctors look beyond just updating your prescription, checking the overall health of your eyes to help protect your vision long-term. Book your comprehensive eye exam today and give your vision the care it deserves.
Come Visit Us In Kamloops
Where to Find Us
You can find us on Notre Dame Drive, right across from Kamloops Hyundai and Lordco Autoparts.
Where to Park
There is plenty of parking available outside the clinic. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our practice!
Our Address
- 945 Notre Dame Drive
- Kamloops, BC V2C 5N9
Contact Information
- Phone: 250-828-1554
- Email: optometry@summiteyecare.ca
Hours Of Operation
Closed on Statutory Holidays & Long Weekends
Check Out Our Google Reviews
Gallery
Specialty Eye Care
Eyewear & Contacts
Summit Eyecare Centre
- 945 Notre Dame Drive
- Kamloops, BC V2C 5N9
- Phone: 250-828-1554
- Email: optometry@summiteyecare.ca