Finding Relief from Dry Eye in Victoria, BC

If your eyes often feel dry, gritty, or irritated, you’re not alone. Dry eye disease is one of the most common conditions our patients experience, and while it can be frustrating, it’s also highly treatable. 

At Cadboro Bay Optometry, we help patients understand why their eyes feel uncomfortable, and provide personalized solutions that bring lasting comfort and clarity. 

What Is Dry Eye

Symptoms of dry eye syndrome can vary depending on the severity of the condition but can include:

• Dry, itchy eyes
• Burning or stinging
• Irritation
• Watery eyes
• Blurred vision
• Pain
• Foreign body sensation

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears they do produce evaporate too quickly. This imbalance leaves your eyes unprotected, leading to burning, stinging, watering, or blurred vision. 

Healthy tears are made up of three layers—oil, water, and mucus, that work together to keep your eyes smooth and hydrated. When one of these layers isn’t balanced, you may experience ongoing discomfort or irritation. 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye 

Dry eye affects everyone differently, but most patients experience one or more of the following: 

• Burning, stinging, or itching sensations 
• Redness or a feeling of something “in your eye” 
• Blurred or fluctuating vision 
• Watery eyes (your body’s response to dryness) 
• Sensitivity to light 
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses 
• Eye fatigue after reading or using screens 

If these symptoms sound familiar, you may be living with chronic dry eye, and it’s important to address it before it worsens. 

What Causes Dry Eye? 

Dry eye can be triggered by many factors, including: 

• Aging, which can reduce natural tear production 
• Prolonged screen time, leading to infrequent blinking 
• Contact lens wear, which can affect tear quality 
• Environmental factors, such as wind, air conditioning, or dry climates 
• Certain medications, like antihistamines or antidepressants 
• Underlying eyelid or gland issues, such as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) 

Because dry eye has multiple causes, accurate diagnosis is key to finding the right solution. 

You Don’t Have to Live with Dry, Irritated Eyes 

While artificial tears may offer temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause of the problem. Our optometrists use advanced diagnostic technology to evaluate your tear film, meibomian glands, and overall eye health. 

Once we understand what’s causing your symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan that brings you real, lasting comfort.

Don’t self-diagnose or suffer through constant irritation.  

Schedule a professional dry eye evaluation at Cadboro Bay Optometry in Victoria and take the first step toward healthy, comfortable eyes.