Helping You Find Real Relief From Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome is a debilitating and uncomfortable condition caused by a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture on the eyes’ surface. Without treatment, it can lead to an increased risk of corneal inflammation and eye infections.
If you have dry eye syndrome, your eyes will likely feel persistently dry, scratchy, or gritty. You may also experience significant irritation if you wear contact lenses.
If you are experiencing dry, uncomfortable eyes, our team wants to help you find relief. At Island Eyecare, we have a wide range of diagnostic tests and technology to detect, diagnose, and treat dry eye syndrome. Our main goal is to help your eyes be comfortable and keep your vision protected.
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Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome
Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:
- A gritty, scratchy, or burning sensation in the eye
- Excess amounts of mucus in or around the eyes
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Red, irritated eyes
- A feeling of having something stuck in your eye
- Inability to wear contact lenses due to discomfort
- Overly watery eyes
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Eye fatigue
Tear Quality & Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can occur due to a variety of factors, both internal and external. Hormonal changes, exposure to certain environmental conditions, some medications, and underlying health conditions can all contribute to dry, uncomfortable eyes.
The eye is lubricated by a tear film made up of 3 layers:
- The mucus layer keeps the tear film fastened to the eye.
- The watery layer is responsible for washing away bacteria and keeping the eye lubricated.
- The oily layer prevents the tear film from evaporating too quickly.
Each layer has a specific function for the tear film, so if one isn’t functioning correctly, the tear film can become out of balance and lead to dry eyes. At Island Eyecare, we can perform specific tests to evaluate your tear film.
Other Common Causes of Dry Eye
Other causes of dry eye syndrome include:
- The natural ageing process
- Prolonged exposure to air conditioning or dry heating indoors
- Long-term contact lens wear
- Inward (entropion) or outward-turning (ectropion) eyelids
- Smoking
- Eye diseases such as blepharitis, or a Demodex infestation
Detecting & Diagnosing Dry Eye Syndrome
At Island Eyecare, we pride ourselves on having modern diagnostic tools and technology to detect and identify dry eye syndrome.
Meibography is often included in every routine pretest and involves a non-invasive imaging technique to get a closer look at your meibomian glands. These tiny eyelid glands produce meibum (oil), a component of tears that prevents evaporation and maintains the tear film’s stability.
Meibography images illuminate the meibomian gland structure and allow us to pinpoint if they are healthy and functioning normally.
The tear osmolarity test evaluates the quality of your tear film. The test measures your tear composition, giving us more information about what may be causing your discomfort.
We also evaluate your eye for the presence of a tear meniscus, a thin strip of tear fluid at the upper and lower eyelid. An absence of a tear meniscus can be a significant indication of dry eye syndrome.
To test the stability of your tears, we perform a non-invasive tear break-up time assessment. This test allows us to see the quality of your tears and if the tear film layers are out of balance.
Treating Dry Eye Syndrome
We offer a wide selection of treatments for dry eyes, from in-office treatments with innovative technology to prescription eye drops.
Not all treatments work for all patients, so we provide several dry eye treatment options, including options for enhanced at-home relief. These include:
- i-Relief Mask
- i-Med Products
- Alcon Products
- Thealoz Duo
- Zaspray
- Lumify
- Zocuwipes
- NutraSea
We are dedicated to helping you mitigate symptoms of dry eye syndrome and finding relief. If you have questions about dry eye syndrome or any of the treatments we offer, please book an appointment.
The iLux MGD Treatment Device device helps visualize treatment zones to treat blocked meibomian glands. It applies localized heat and pressure to dissolve blockages and promote normal gland function.
The E>Eye is the first medical device in the world to use intense regulated pulsed light technology to treat meibomian gland dysfunction. Specialized light pulses are applied to the meibomian glands to stimulate them and improve their function.
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) is an okra-infused solution applied with a sterile cotton applicator. It works by gently exfoliating the eyelids. When the eyelid margin is clean, the meibomian glands open up and help release oils into the eye that help make up a healthy tear film.
Arunalight is a red light eye therapy, also known as low light therapy, a noninvasive treatment that can improve blood circulation and soothe inflammation. Unlike other light therapies, red light is gentle and safe for sensitive areas like the eyelids.
During the 3-minute treatment, nonvisible light energy is absorbed by cells, including the meibomian glands (oil glands in your eyelids), enhancing function and tear quality.
Safe Beauty For Your Eyes
At Island Eyecare, we’re focused on every part of your ocular health, even the things you might not think about! That’s why we carry a makeup line designed with your ocular health in mind.
Èyes Are The Story makes a range of optocosmetics and skincare. Their products have been uniquely formulated for sensitive eyes, contact lens users, and sufferers of dry eye and digital eye strain.
The product formulas are based on peer-reviewed scientific research and are vegan as well as paraben-free. Safe and comfortable makeup wear is the goal, without any of the burning, stinging, or dryness that can come with mainstream makeup brands.
Keep Your Eyes Comfortable at Home
We carry various products in-store that you can take home with you to keep your eyes feeling lubricated and comfortable. During your appointment, we’ll work at home products into your treatment plan to help you mitigate your symptoms of dry eye disease.
We also conveniently offer all of our at-home products online so you can enjoy the convenience of replenishing your medications whenever you need them.
Community Award
- Platinum in Administrative Services
- Platinum in Contact Lenses
- Platinum in Eyeglasses
- Platinum in Sunglasses
- Platinum in Opticians
- Platinum in Optometrists
Dry Eye Services & Diagnostics
At Island Eyecare, we work hard to find innovative ways to invest in your eye health and vision. We offer a range of modern technologies and treatment options to help alleviate dry eye and offer you genuine relief.
Our main goal is to get to the root of your symptoms, so you can enjoy longer-lasting relief from red, scratchy eyes.
Rediscover Clearer Vision with MacuMira
Island Eyecare is excited to offer MacuMira, a groundbreaking, noninvasive treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). If you have vision loss caused by dry AMD, MacuMira could be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
This clinically tested technology uses microcurrent stimulation to help nourish and restore your vision, improving your ability to see and experience life with greater clarity. Schedule a consultation with us to learn if MacuMira can help you take the first step toward clearer vision.
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University Teaching Program
Dr. Shaun MacInnis is thrilled to serve as a Clerkship supervisor at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry and Vision Science. The Clerkship program offers students invaluable hands-on experience, significantly enhancing their clinical, diagnostic, and management skills.
Our Location in Sydney
Find us in Sydney, Nova Scotia, on the corner of Welton Street and Spruce Street. Our office is down just from the Sydney Memorial Chapel. There is ample free parking next to our building.
Our Address
- 117 Welton Street
- Sydney, NS B1P 5R6
Contact Information
- Phone: 902-539-0800
- Email: [email protected]
Hours of Operations
Our Google Reviews
Our Testimonials
Super friendly services. Cleanliness and sterilization routines were impeccable! You will feel 100% safe and comfortable here. They also have very modern and numerous pieces of equipment to assure that every aspect of your eye care is investigated thoroughly!
Ron D.
Outstanding practice! Dr. Shaun MacInnis has totally re-vamped this facility with the most advanced technologies in eye care and vision needs. Extremely professional, knowledgeable, and courteous staff. I highly recommend Brittany, a tremendous optician, who is sure to provide you with excellent service for all of your eyewear needs! She is superior in her field! Well done Island Eyecare!
Elizabeth M
Professional and courteous staff, took time to explain and answer questions. Very thorough examination and use of the latest technologies to support the doctor.
Alan A.
It’s always a great experience going to Island Eyecare. Shaun and staff are extremely knowledgeable and always a great pleasure to deal with! Shout out to Jessica who made my visit today a little brighter with her awesome personality and helpfulness. 🙂
Deanna H.
Loved my experience. The inside was completely made over, which completely blew me away. The staff were extremely helpful and up to date with the latest trends and technologies. The eye care professional was professional and very thorough.
Roddie M.
