What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition in which the eye does not produce enough tears for healthy eye function. Having dry eye is fairly common in those over 50, affecting around 30% of people of that age or older. Dry eye can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, can cause vision damage if not looked after by an optometrist.
Stoney Creek Optometry is here to examine your eye health. If you feel you may have dry eye or have any symptoms, book an appointment with our practice.
What Causes Dry Eye?
There are many potential causes of dry eye. Dry eye can result from problems with tear film, aging, or certain medications. A common cause of dry eye is a condition called meibomian gland dysfunction, in which the glands at the corners of the eye become clogged. Talking to our doctors can help to identify the cause of your dry eye.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye
You may have dry eye if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Stinging or burning of the eye
- Redness of the eye
- Eye mucus
- Watery eyes
- Feeling like there is something in the eye
- Difficulty putting in contacts
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
Be sure to talk to our doctors to diagnose any eye condition at our practice.
Talk to Our Team About Your Dry Eye Concerns
Our team is here for you if you have questions about dry eye. Contact us to book an appointment or talk to the Stoney Creek Optometry team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Eye Treatment in Hamilton & Stoney Creek, ON
Dry eye can be confusing to diagnose on your own. Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most from patients dealing with dry eye symptoms.
How do I know if I have dry eye or just allergies?
Dry eye and allergies can feel similar, since both can cause redness, itchiness, and watery eyes. Allergies are often accompanied by sneezing or seasonal patterns, while dry eye tends to be more persistent and can include symptoms like a gritty or burning sensation. An optometrist can help determine which condition you’re dealing with, or whether it’s a combination of both.
Can dry eye be cured, or only managed?
For most people, dry eye is a manageable, ongoing condition rather than something with a one-time cure. Identifying the underlying cause, whether it’s related to tear production, meibomian gland dysfunction, or another factor, helps your optometrist recommend the right approach to keep symptoms under control.
Does screen time cause dry eye?
Extended screen use can contribute to dry eye symptoms. We tend to blink less often when focused on a screen, which can lead to faster tear evaporation and discomfort. If you spend a lot of time on digital devices, this may be worth mentioning during your exam.
Are over-the-counter eye drops enough to treat dry eye?
For mild, occasional dryness, over-the-counter artificial tears may help. However, if your symptoms are persistent or affecting your daily comfort, it’s worth having your eyes examined, since the underlying cause of dry eye can vary and may need a more targeted approach than drops alone.
When should I see an optometrist about dry eye symptoms?
If you’re regularly experiencing stinging, burning, redness, blurry vision, or the feeling of something in your eye, it’s a good idea to book an exam. Left unaddressed, dry eye can sometimes affect your vision, so it’s worth having it properly assessed.
Is dry eye more common as you get older?
Yes. Dry eye becomes more common with age, affecting around 30% of people over 50. Hormonal changes, medications, and natural changes in tear production can all play a role.
Our Brands
Extended Hours, Direct Billing, & Conveniently Located
Life can get busy, and we want to help simplify your eye care experience. We are conveniently located on all major bus routes, provide free parking, have extended evening and Saturday hours, and offer direct billing to most insurance companies. We implement our extensive experience and innovative technology into our eye exams to ensure your visit is a productive one.
Our Location
Our clinic is located on Queenston Road, right next to Fortinos Plaza in the prestigious Stoney Creek Professional Arts Building.
Our Address
- Stoney Creek Professional Arts Building, 980 Queenston Rd. Suite 202
- Stoney Creek, ON L8G 1B9
Contact Information
- Phone: 905-664-5949
- Email: [email protected]
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Our Google Reviews
