Dry Eye Consultations

Diagnosing Dry Eye Disease in Kitchener-Waterloo

Our optometrists perform a number of advanced diagnostic tests to determine if you have dry eye and the cause and severity of your condition.

Your dry eye consultation will include a questionnaire to determine your risk factors and severity of symptoms, an evaluation of the front surface of your eyes and your tear film using dyes, tear break-up time and meibography (images of your meibomian glands).

Following your consultation, you will be provided with a personalized treatment plan to address the underlying cause and provide you with maximal comfort.

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Starting with a Comprehensive Eye Exam

The first step in the diagnostic process is a comprehensive eye exam. During this examination, our eye doctors can evaluate your overall eye health and discuss your symptoms in detail.

Additional diagnostic tests may be needed to further evaluate your condition. These tests may include tear break-up time and meibography to help get to the bottom of your dry eye symptoms.

Our Diagnostic Testing

Our dry eye diagnostic tests include questionnaires, an evaluation of the front surface of your eyes and your tear film using dyes, tear break-up time, and meibography (images of your meibomian glands).

The results of these diagnostic tests help our team develop a personalized treatment plan that can include IPL and radiofrequency therapy to manage your dry eye symptoms and help you find relief.

Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) Test

We may perform a tear break-up time (TBUT) test to assess tear film stability. This involves instilling a simple dye called fluorescein onto the surface of your eye.

The doctor will then ask you to hold your eyes open after blinking and observe how long it takes for the tears to start breaking up. A low TBUT may indicate a deficiency in the lipid (oil) component of tears, which can be caused by malfunctioning oil glands in the eyelids.

Meibography

Meibography is a type of infrared imaging that takes photos of the meibomian glands in your upper and lower eyelids. These images are critical in accurately diagnosing meibomian gland dysfunction, which is commonly a contributor to dry eye disease.

Schirmer Test

Another test commonly used to diagnose dry eye disease is the Schirmer test. In this procedure, a strip of filter paper is gently placed under the lower eyelid, and you will be asked to close your eyes for approximately 5 minutes.

Afterward, the amount of moisture on the strip is measured. The Schirmer test helps evaluate the quantity of tears produced by your eyes.

Preventing Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can be a persistent and uncomfortable condition, but there are steps you can take to help prevent dry eye symptoms and maintain optimal eye health. To avoid environmental triggers, consider implementing the following preventive measures:

Use sunglasses and protective eyewear
Use a humidifier
Take regular screen time breaks
Stay hydrated
Avoid smoke exposure

You can significantly improve your eye comfort and overall quality of life by taking proactive steps to prevent dry eyes and seeking professional guidance when needed.

Your Destination for Dry Eye Care

Our dry eye services kick off with a thorough consultation to help you understand your dry eye symptoms. From there, we can recommend a treatment option to address your needs.

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