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.
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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.
Book AppointmentWhat 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.
Decreased Tear Production
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
Poor Quality Tears
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!
Book AppointmentVisit Our Location
We have convenient parking right out front. We’re just down the block from BMO Bank.
Our Address
- 5113–50 Avenue
- Ponoka, AB T4J 1N5
Contact Information
- Phone: (403) 783-0191
- Fax: (403) 783-0190
- Email: info@hometownvision.ca
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
In-Depth Eye Exams
& Great Glasses
At Hometown Vision, Dr. Stephanie Rowland cares deeply for every patient who entrusts her with their vision. Your eye exam always revolves around your needs.
Dr. Rowland will listen to any concerns you have, check your prescription, assess your eyes’ health and function, and walk you through the results of your noninvasive retinal imaging. Every step of your exam is designed to serve your vision and give you peace of mind.
We’re here for you. Stop in for your eye exam or book an appointment with us soon.
Land Acknowledgment
We acknowledge that our eye clinic and our hometown are built on Treaty 6 territory, the traditional lands of First Nations and Métis people. We respectfully share responsibility for caring for our land and our community.
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Hometown Vision
- 5113–50 Avenue
- Ponoka, AB T4J 1N5
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P: (403) 783-0191
F: (403) 783-0190
info@hometownvision.ca
