Many people in St. Albert and across Alberta ask themselves this exact question. Dry, irritated eyes are not just uncomfortable — they can affect focus, work, and overall quality of life. Some people describe it as a gritty or sandy feeling, others notice burning, watering, or blurred vision
that clears up when they blink. If your eyes feel dry every day, you may be dealing with more than just the effects of Alberta’s climate.
Dry eye is one of the most common conditions we see at Erin Ridge Vision Care Centre. It has many possible causes, and understanding them is the first step to finding lasting relief.
Why do eyes feel dry in Alberta’s climate?
Alberta’s dry air is one of the biggest culprits. Low humidity outdoors combined with indoor heating or air conditioning strips moisture from the eyes. The problem often gets worse in winter when furnaces run constantly, but many people notice symptoms year-round.
The environment is only part of the picture. Digital device use plays a major role, since staring at screens reduces blink rate and keeps tears from spreading evenly across the eye. Contact lenses can also make dryness worse, especially if worn for long periods of time. Aging and certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease or autoimmune disorders may contribute as well.
Common symptoms of dry eye
Dry eye does not look the same for everyone. For some people it is mild irritation, while for others it is constant discomfort. The most common symptoms include:
- Burning, stinging, or scratchy eyes
- A sensation of grit or sand in the eyes
- Redness or eye fatigue after reading or screen use
- Excessive watering as the eyes try to overcompensate
- Blurry vision that clears when you blink
- Sensitivity to wind, smoke, or dry air
If these symptoms sound familiar and happen almost every day, it is a sign that you may be dealing with chronic dry eye rather than just occasional irritation.
Can lifestyle habits make dry eye worse?
Yes. Everyday routines can make a big difference in how dry or comfortable your eyes feel. Long hours of screen time, forgetting to take breaks at work, or sleeping in contact lenses can
all make symptoms worse. Many people also do not realize that some medications, such as antihistamines or certain blood pressure drugs, can reduce tear production.
Simple changes often help. Taking regular breaks during computer use, staying hydrated, and adding a humidifier at home can ease symptoms. But if these steps are not enough, it may be time to explore treatment options.
How an eye exam helps diagnose dry eye?
A comprehensive eye exam can reveal why your eyes are dry. At Erin Ridge Vision Care Centre, we evaluate the quantity and quality of your tears, look for signs of inflammation, and check the oil glands in your eyelids. Understanding whether your eyes are not making enough tears or if the tears are evaporating too quickly is key to choosing the right treatment.
Treatment options for dry eyes at Erin Ridge Vision Care
There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but several effective treatments are available:
- Artificial tears or medicated eye drops to restore moisture
- Specialized contact lenses designed for patients with dry eyes
- In-office procedures that improve the function of oil glands in the eyelids
- Nutritional or lifestyle recommendations tailored to your needs
For patients whose symptoms are tied to medical conditions or medications, we work closely with your health care providers to build a plan that addresses the underlying cause.
When to book an appointment for dry eyes?
If your eyes feel dry all the time, and over-the-counter drops only provide short relief, it is time to schedule an exam. Left untreated, chronic dry eye can damage the surface of the eye and increase the risk of infection. The earlier the condition is diagnosed, the easier it is to manage.
You do not have to put up with the constant discomfort of dry eyes. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, most people experience significant improvement in comfort and vision. At Erin Ridge Vision Care Centre, we help patients in St. Albert find lasting solutions tailored to Alberta’s climate and lifestyle.
If your eyes feel dry every day, book an appointment with our team. Relief is possible, and with the right care, you can get back to clear, comfortable vision.
