Understanding the Different Types of Dry Eye

Dry, irritated eyes can make even simple tasks, like reading or working on a computer, uncomfortable. If you often feel like something is stuck in your eye or your vision blurs throughout the day, you may be experiencing dry eye. What many people don’t realize is that there are different types of dry eye, each requiring specific care. At Total Eye Care Centre in Coquitlam, BC, our experienced optometrists diagnose the cause of dryness and create personalized dry eye treatment plans to help you find lasting relief.

Evaporative Dry Eye

The most common form of dry eye is called evaporative dry eye. It occurs when your tears evaporate too quickly, often due to issues with the meibomian glands in your eyelids. These glands produce oils that keep tears from drying out too fast. When they become blocked or don’t function properly—a condition known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)—you may notice burning, redness, or sensitivity to light.

Treatment often includes warm compresses, eyelid hygiene routines, or in-office therapies that restore healthy oil flow. Our eye doctors near you can also recommend artificial tears designed to supplement the missing oils and protect your eye’s surface.

Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye

This type of dry eye happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears. It’s often linked to aging, certain medications, or medical conditions that affect tear production, like Sjögren’s syndrome. Without enough natural lubrication, your eyes may feel gritty or sore.

Managing aqueous deficient dry eye focuses on improving tear quantity and quality. Our optometrists may suggest prescription eye drops to boost moisture, punctal plugs to help retain tears, or dietary changes that support overall eye health.

Mixed Dry Eye

In many cases, patients experience a combination of both types; tear evaporation and reduced tear production. This mixed form of dry eye can be especially uncomfortable but is also highly manageable with the right care. A customized dry eye treatment plan from our eye doctors near you may combine lifestyle adjustments, medications, and in-office therapies to restore comfort and clarity.

Find Relief with Total Eye Care Centre

At Total Eye Care Centre in Coquitlam, BC, our team of skilled optometrists uses advanced diagnostic tools to identify what’s causing your symptoms and provide effective solutions tailored to your eyes.

If you’re tired of living with irritation or blurred vision, call (778) 285-6972 to schedule an appointment. We’ll help you achieve lasting comfort and healthier eyes with personalized dry eye treatment that truly works.