Dry eyes occur when your tear glands don't produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Common causes include aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, environmental factors like wind or dry air, and prolonged screen time. This condition can cause discomfort, irritation, and blurred vision.
Several effective artificial tear drops are available across Canada to provide relief:
Preservative-free options are recommended for frequent use (more than four times daily) or for sensitive eyes. Choose thinner drops for mild symptoms and thicker gels for severe dryness. Apply drops by tilting your head back, pulling down the lower eyelid, and placing one drop in the pocket. Use as directed, typically 1-2 drops every few hours as needed.
Eye allergies affect millions of Canadians, particularly during spring and summer when pollen counts are high. Environmental triggers include dust mites, pet dander, and mould. Symptoms typically include itchy, red, watery eyes and swelling.
Effective over-the-counter eye drops available in Canada include:
For comprehensive relief, consider combination approaches with oral antihistamines like Reactine, Aerius, or Claritin, which address systemic allergy symptoms. Mast cell stabilizers work best when started before allergy season begins. Prevention strategies include keeping windows closed during high pollen days, using air purifiers, washing hands frequently, and avoiding rubbing your eyes. Apply cold compresses for additional soothing relief.
Eye infections can be uncomfortable and concerning, but understanding the difference between bacterial and viral conjunctivitis helps determine appropriate treatment. Bacterial infections typically produce thick, yellow-green discharge and respond well to antibiotic treatments, while viral infections cause watery discharge and clear up on their own.
For bacterial eye infections, over-the-counter options like Polysporin Eye Drops can provide effective relief. However, severe infections, persistent symptoms lasting more than 48 hours, or significant vision changes require prescription medications from your healthcare provider.
Seek immediate medical attention for severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, light sensitivity, or symptoms that worsen despite treatment.
Proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining eye health and lens performance. Daily disposable lenses offer convenience and reduced infection risk, while monthly lenses require consistent cleaning and storage routines with quality care solutions.
Multi-purpose solutions like Opti-Free, ReNu, and Biotrue provide comprehensive cleaning, disinfecting, and storage in one convenient formula. These solutions effectively remove protein deposits and kill harmful microorganisms that can accumulate on lens surfaces.
Hydrogen peroxide systems such as Clear Care offer superior disinfection for sensitive eyes or stubborn deposits. These systems require special neutralizing cases and complete the cleaning cycle in six hours minimum.
Common issues like dryness, irritation, or cloudy vision often indicate improper cleaning, overwear, or the need for rewetting drops during daily use.
Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal eye health throughout your lifetime. Essential nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids help protect your eyes from oxidative stress and support retinal function. These antioxidants naturally accumulate in the macula, providing protection against harmful blue light and reducing the risk of age-related eye conditions.
Canadians can access quality eye supplements including Ocuvite, PreserVision, and Vitalux, which are formulated specifically to support eye health. Additionally, incorporating eye-healthy foods into your diet can provide natural nutritional support:
Regular supplementation and proper nutrition may help prevent age-related macular degeneration while offering protection against digital eye strain from prolonged screen exposure.
Modern eye care extends beyond medications to include various accessories and tools that support daily eye comfort and hygiene. Warm and cold compress options provide relief for dry eyes, styes, and general eye fatigue, while specialized eye wash solutions and cups help remove irritants and maintain proper eye cleanliness.
Essential eye care accessories available to Canadians include:
While these tools provide valuable support for daily eye care, it's important to consult with an eye care professional if you experience persistent symptoms, sudden vision changes, eye pain, or any concerning eye conditions that don't improve with basic care measures.
