Persistent eye irritation, blurry vision, and discomfort can all be signs of dry eye syndrome.
At Dr Elmalem and Associates, with locations in Richmond Hill and Newmarket, we offer advanced solutions like Eye-light®, Darwin IPL®, LipiFlow®, and LLLT to address the root causes of dry eyes and help restore lasting comfort.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance leaves the eye surface inadequately lubricated, leading to discomfort and sometimes affecting vision.
Tears are vital for keeping the eyes healthy – they protect against environmental irritants, keep vision clear, and help nourish the eye’s surface. When the tear system isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to ongoing irritation.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome
- Burning, stinging, or scratchy sensation in the eyes
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
- Redness or inflammation
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision, often worsening at the end of the day
- Watery eyes caused by irritation
- A sensation of something in the eye
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s worth scheduling a dry eye evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
What Can Cause Dry Eyes?
Dry eye syndrome can develop from a range of factors – sometimes it’s a single cause, other times it’s a combination.
- Decreased Tear Production – Age, medical conditions (like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders), certain medications, and laser eye surgery can all reduce tear production.
- Increased Tear Evaporation – Wind, dry indoor air, extended screen use, and contact lens wear can increase evaporation. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), in which the glands that produce the oily layer of tears become blocked, is one of the most common culprits.
- Imbalance in Tear Composition – Tears are made of water, oil, and mucus. Problems with any layer can destabilise the tear film, causing tears to evaporate too quickly.
Identifying the source of dryness is the first step in creating a successful treatment plan.
Advanced Dry Eye Treatments at Dr Elmalem and Associates
At our Richmond Hill and Newmarket clinics, we don’t just address symptoms – we treat the root cause. Using advanced diagnostic technology like LipiScan meibography, we can assess the condition of your meibomian glands and customise a treatment plan.
Espansione Eye-light®
Eye-light® combines Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) with Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) in one session. This dual approach reactivates the meibomian glands, reduces redness, and restores the tear film for long-lasting relief.
Darwin IPL®
Darwin IPL® targets inflammation and improves oil gland function through controlled light pulses. It’s effective for patients with MGD and can be completed in quick, comfortable sessions.
LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation
LipiFlow® uses gentle heat and pressure on the inner eyelids to melt and clear gland blockages. This FDA-approved procedure is ideal for patients who haven’t responded to at-home treatments like warm compresses.
Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)
LLLT applies red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity in the eyelids, supporting healthy gland function. It’s contact-free, comfortable, and effective for sensitive eyes.
Why Professional Eye Care Matters in Ontario
Over-the-counter drops can temporarily soothe irritation, but they can’t correct underlying issues like blocked oil glands or tear film imbalance. That’s why professional evaluation and targeted treatment are essential.
By combining advanced imaging, customised therapies, and expert care, our team can help patients experience meaningful, lasting relief from chronic dry eye symptoms.
Find Relief in Richmond Hill or Newmarket
Dry eye doesn’t have to be an everyday struggle. At Dr Elmalem and Associates, we specialise in advanced, non-invasive treatments tailored to each patient.
Call our Richmond Hill or Newmarket location or request your eye care appointment online today. Discover how our specialised dry eye care can help you see and feel more comfortably.