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Serving neighbouring Stratford, Wellesley and Kitchener, Ontario.

Dry Eye Treatment

Do you wake up with dry or red eyes?
Are your eyes burning, itchy, or gritty?

You might have dry eye syndrome.

Book An Appointment

Home » Eye Care Services » Dry Eye

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome? (DES)

dry eye diagram

Dry eye syndrome (DES) occurs when tear production and drainage are not in balance. People with dry eyes either do not produce enough tears or their tears are of poor quality. The result? Unpleasant symptoms, including itching, burning, redness, watery eyes, excessive tearing—and even eye pain.

Dry eyes can also increase your risk for more serious eye problems like corneal ulcers.

Dr. Howard Dolman can diagnose the cause of your dry eyes and provide long lasting soothing relief.

Learn More About Dry Eye

How to Know If You Have Dry Eye Syndrome

Do any of these symptoms seem familiar?

Gritty, itchy, or stinging eyes
Gritty, itchy, or stinging eyes
Excessive tearing and discharge
Excessive tearing and discharge
Eyes that feel tired or dry
Eyes that feel tired or dry
Increased light sensitivity
Increased light sensitivity
Regularly using eye drops
Regularly using eye drops
Discomfort in the eyes that worsens as the day progresses
Discomfort that worsens as the day goes on

Dry Eye Treatments We Offer

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Heat Therapy for Dry Eye Syndrome

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Meibography: Diagnosing Meibomian Glands For Dry Eye Treatment

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Eye Drops for Dry Eyes: Why You Should See Your Eye Doctor

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Hot Compresses for Dry Eye

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Dry Eye Reviews

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How Do I Prevent Dry Eye Symptoms?

Suffering from dry eye disease not only diminishes your quality of life but also makes daily activities such as reading, doing sports, or driving, a real struggle. Get to the root of your dry eyes by contacting us for a full diagnosis and a treatment plan that’s right for you. In the meanwhile, here are a few things you can do to help temporarily relieve dry eye symptoms.

Omega 3

Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. This helps produce oils in your tears and slow evaporation.

The 20-20-20 Rule

Extensive screen time can result in dryness and eye irritation. Take a 20-second break from your digital device or computer every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away.

And make sure to blink more often, especially when you’re using a screen for a long stretch.

Position Fans Far Away

Position air vents, fans and heaters so that they don’t blow directly into your eyes and dry them out.

Want Relief From Dry Eye?

First Step:

Request an appointment online or give us a call. We offer convenient hours so that you can choose a time that works well with your schedule.

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Second Step:
Come In For Your Dry Eye Exam

Our Kitchener & Waterloo region dry eye treatment team is experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of dry eye syndrome. Dr. Howard Dolman will assess the cause of your dry eyes, and find the perfect solution to address your specific needs.

Third Step:
Enjoy Comfortable Vision

From eye drops to in-office treatments, our optometrists have what it takes to make sure your eyes feel great. Pop on in and feel the difference for yourself!

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Dry Eye Causes

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blocked oil glands
Blocked Oil Glands

Tears evaporate too quickly without an oil layer.

Excessive tearing and discharge
Gender

Women have dry eye syndrome more often.

Eyes that feel tired or dry
Age

Those over 50 are at increased risk.

Increased light sensitivity
Environment

Windy, dry environments can cause symptoms.

Regularly using eye drops
Medication

Medications, like antidepressants, can also cause dry eyes.

Discomfort in the eyes that worsens as the day progresses
Auto-Immune Disorders

Some diseases may dry out your eyes.

Our Dry Eye Treatment Team

Dr. Howard Dolman

Dr. Howard Dolman

Howard graduated from the University of Waterloo, School of Optometry, in 1990 and was honoured with the Award of Merit from the Canadian Association of Optometrists.     Howard is originally from Toronto, and has been practising in New Hamburg since 1991. Howard and Kim Dolman purchased the clinic in...

Have More Questions About Dry Eyes? | FAQ

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Is there a cure for dry eye syndrome?

Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for dry eye syndrome. However, there are a number of effective ways to prevent or treat symptoms. Make an appointment today with our trusted optometrists in New Hamburg for evaluation and personalized treatment options.

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What is the main cause of dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome commonly occurs because your eyes are not producing enough tears, or the tears being produced don’t contain the proper components to keep the eyes hydrated. An eye doctor can perform tests to determine what is causing your dry eyes, and how to treat the symptoms.

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Can dry eye syndrome cause blindness?

Yes. In extreme circumstances, dry eyes can result in scratches on the eye that leave scars on the cornea. This scarring can make it difficult for the eye to focus incoming light, obscuring vision. This may eventually result in permanent vision damage or blindness if not treated properly.

Don’t wait for dry eye syndrome to worsen. Take action today by booking your appointment with Dolman Eyecare Centre in New Hamburg.

Book An Appointment