Dry Eye Exams

&Treatments

Do You Suffer From Dry Eyes?

At Helio Optometry, we specialize in the accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment of dry eyes, offering relief for this common yet frustrating condition. Our eye doctors utilizes cutting-edge technology to evaluate the root causes of your dry eye symptoms, ensuring a tailored treatment plan that addresses your unique needs. Whether through advanced therapies, prescription medications, or lifestyle adjustments, we are committed to restoring your eye comfort and health. All of our optometrists are licensed in Alberta to prescribe both topical and oral medications, providing comprehensive and professional care you can trust.

Cost: Covered by Alberta Health Care
Frequency: Hopefully Never
Please Note: Eye Infection Visits Do Not Generate a Prescription for New Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses.

Common Eye Infections

  • Meibomitis

    Meibomitis, the inflammation of the meibomian glands, is a leading cause of dry eye symptoms because it disrupts the oily layer of the tear film, essential for preventing tear evaporation. Without adequate oil production, tears evaporate quickly, leading to persistent dryness and irritation in the eyes.

  • Tear Production

    Reduced tear production can lead to dry eye by depriving the eye's surface of essential moisture and lubrication, resulting in irritation and discomfort. Without adequate tears, the eyes can feel gritty, itchy, and may even become more prone to infections.

  • Keratitis

    Extensive dry eye can cause corneal keratitis by damaging the protective tear film, leaving the cornea vulnerable to inflammation and infection. Without sufficient lubrication, the corneal surface can become irritated, leading to painful symptoms and potential vision issues.

  • Blepharitis & Demodex

    Blepharitis and Demodex mites can aggravate dry eye symptoms by inflaming the eyelid margins, disrupting the tear film, and blocking oil glands essential for eye lubrication. This irritation reduces tear quality, leading to increased dryness, itchiness, and discomfort in the eyes.

  • Pinguecula & Pterygiums

    Pingueculas and pterygiums are often signs of chronic dry eye, as they develop when the eye’s surface is exposed to prolonged dryness and irritation. These growths can form as the eye tries to protect itself from dryness, environmental factors, and UV exposure.

  • Allergies

    Allergies can worsen dry eye symptoms by triggering inflammation and increasing itchiness, which may lead to rubbing and further irritation. This cycle can deplete the tear film, intensifying discomfort and making it harder for the eyes to stay properly lubricated.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Eye infections can present a variety of symptoms, and recognizing them early is key to effective treatment. Here are some expanded details on common symptoms associated with eye infections:

  1. Redness: Often the most noticeable sign, it can range from slight redness to a deep, bloodshot appearance. Redness is usually due to inflammation or irritation of the eye or eyelids.

  2. Pain or Discomfort: This can vary significantly, from a mild, irritating sensation to intense pain. The pain might be constant or only occur when blinking or touching the eye area.

  3. Discharge: Depending on the type of infection, discharge from the eye can vary. It may be watery, mucous-like, or even pus-like in more severe infections. The colour can range from clear to yellow or green.

  4. Itching and Irritation: Particularly common in infections caused by allergies or irritants. Itching can lead to a vicious cycle of rubbing and further irritation. However, it's important to note that itchiness is not always related to allergies. 

  5. Blurred Vision: Infections that affect the cornea or tear film can lead to a temporary decrease in vision clarity. In some cases, sensitivity to light may also occur.

  6. Swelling: Eyelid swelling is common in infections like styes and blepharitis. In more severe cases, the entire area around the eye may become swollen.

  7. Feeling of a Foreign Body: A sensation as if something is in the eye, often accompanied by increased tear production as the eye tries to flush out the perceived irritant.

  8. Crusting or Flaking: Particularly noticeable in the morning, crusts or flakes can form at the eyelashes or eyelid margins due to discharge drying overnight.

  9. Tearing: An increase in tear production, or watery eyes, can be a response to irritation or inflammation caused by an infection.

  10. Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): Some eye infections can make the eyes more sensitive to light, causing discomfort or a need to squint in bright environments.

New Patients Welcome & Same Day Appointments Available