Protecting your eyes

Shannon LeClair
Times Reporter

 

Alberta winters can be tough on our bodies. The dryness in the air seems to suck the moisture from our skin and lotion becomes almost a necessity. But did you know that it also wreaks havoc on your eyes?
By February we’re in the middle of winter, and the dry winter climate has taken hold. For many Albertans this time of year also brings on aggravating dry eye symptoms.
“Dry eye is one of the most common conditions that I see on a daily basis, especially in the winter,” says Dr. Chris Johnson of Ranch Market Eyecare. “The symptoms can range anywhere from annoying to debilitating, and finding the right treatment can be a challenge.”
Dry eye occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough quality tears. Heavy reading or digital device use, prolonged contact lens wear, hormonal imbalances and even certain medications can contribute to the disease.
“My patients deal with a wide variety of symptoms,” said Johnson. “Some say their vision is blurry or that their eyes are sensitive to light. Others complain about a scratchy or gritty feeling, and say that sometimes it feels like something is stuck in their eye.”
In some cases, said Johnson, the eyes may try to create more tears in response to the dryness, which can result in excessive watering. Optometrists will often ask a series of questions, and can conduct specialized tests to diagnose dry eye. There is no cure, but it can be helped. Treatment options include changes to your lifestyle and/or diet, eye medication, over-the-counter lubrications, in-office eyelid procedures and at-home treatments.
“Dry eye can cause permanent tissue damage if left untreated, so it’s really important to see your optometrist if you are having problems,” says Dr. Johnson.
Early detection, as with anything, is key in successfully treating any eye disease. During your eye exams discuss lifestyle changes and different treatment options with your optometrist to help prolong your eye health.

There are also ways to manage symptoms on a day-to-day basis:
· Avoid pollution and irritants. Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can disturb the tear film and transfer irritants to your eyes.
· Hydrate. If you are dehydrated, the fluid in your eyes can be depleted, so drink lots of liquids.
· Take special care with contact lenses. Contact lenses can soak up the fluid in your eye. Keep them clean, and try not to wear them all the time.
· Blink! Try to blink every five seconds, especially when staring at your computer screen or digital device.
· Book an appointment. The best way to get a proper diagnosis and treatment is to see a Doctor of Optometry. In Alberta the cost for an annual eye exam is covered for children and teens up to age 19 and adults 65 years and older. To book your annual eye exam, visitwww.optometrists.ab.ca/find-an-optometrist.