Dry Eye Syndrome

DRY EYE SYNDROME

Studies show that approximately 30% of people in Canada experience symptoms associated with Dry Eye Syndrome (DES). In drier, windier climates like Alberta, that number is significantly higher reaching an average of 90%.

Dry Eye Syndrome is a very common but often under-recognized condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears that are produced aren’t of the right quality to properly lubricate and protect the surface of the eye. This can lead to a variety of symptoms such as burning, irritation, redness, fluctuating vision, and a persistent feeling of dryness or “something in the eye.”

While severity varies from person to person, Dry Eye Syndrome is highly manageable once the underlying cause is identified. With the right assessment and treatment plan, symptoms can often be significantly reduced and long-term eye comfort restored.

Our team has extensive training in dry eye therapies and treatment options, and we’re here to help you find solutions tailored to your specific needs.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF DRY EYE SYNDROME?

There are three primary types of Dry Eye Syndrome:

Evaporative Dry Eye: Caused by a deficiency in the lipid (oily) layer of the tear film, which normally prevents tear evaporation. In most cases, this is caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)—meibomian glands can be found along the eyelid margins and naturally express oils on to the eye with every blink. This oil prevents the tears from evaporating too quickly but when these glands aren’t working well, the tear film becomes unstable leading to dryness and irritation.

Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye: Occurs when the lacrimal glands do not produce enough of the water-based component of tears. Aqueous deficiency is often linked to autoimmune conditions, hormonal changes, normal aging, or certain medications, and typically affects a smaller portion of the population.

Mixed Dry Eye: A combination of both aqueous deficiency and tear instability.

WHAT ARE SOME DRY EYE SYMPTOMS?

Dry, Scratchy, or Gritty Feeling – A foreign body type sensation, like sand or dust in the eyes, making it uncomfortable to blink.
Burning, Stinging or Itching – A frequent source of irritation that can make the eyes feel itchy, hot or sore.
Redness – Eyes may appear excessively bloodshot or there may be redness around the lid margins or eyelid itself.
Excessive Tearing – Dryness can trigger overproduction of tears as the eyes try to compensate leading to excessive wetness.

Blurry or Fluctuating Vision – Vision may clear and blur intermittently, especially after reading or screen use, and often improve after blinking.
Light Sensitivity – Bright lights, screens or natural sunlight may feel uncomfortable or even painful.
Crusting or Sticky Eyelids – Buildup along the lashes and/or discomfort when blinking, often noticed in the morning upon waking.
Difficulty with Contact Lenses – Lenses may feel dry, irritating and often hard to wear for longer periods of time.

TREATMENTS - HEAT THERAPY

Clinical studies have shown that warming the eyelids to 40–45°C (104–113°F) for 10–15 minutes is the most effective way to melt and loosen the oils in the meibomian glands. When the oil layer of your tears flows more freely, it slows tear evaporation and helps keep your eyes properly lubricated.

Masks designed specifically for dry eye treatment maintain this optimal temperature consistently, making them more effective than improvised methods such as warm washcloths. For best results, daily use is recommended—much like brushing or flossing your teeth—to keep the glands healthy and your eyes comfortable.

At Not Another Eye Store we carry a variety of heated masks to fit different preferences and lifestyles. Available in wired and wireless options, electric masks deliver consistent, controlled warmth for the most effective treatment.

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