Recently, our optometrist, Dr. Smith, saw a high school student who was struggling to keep up with his studies. He loved technology and spent hours reading, writing, and researching online. But by the end of each school day, his eyes were burning, itchy, and blurry — symptoms that made him dread going back to class.
His parents assumed it was just typical eye strain from screen time, but a thorough eye exam revealed something else: dry eye syndrome. With targeted treatment, his symptoms dramatically improved, helping him return to school with clear vision and confidence.
Stories like his remind us that dry eyes aren’t just an adult problem. As kids and teens dive into another year of learning and digital activities, it’s crucial to keep their eyes healthy and comfortable — and dry eye treatment could be the key.
Why Dry Eye Is a Growing Problem for Students
Dry eye used to be considered mostly an adult issue, but times have changed. Here’s why dry eye is becoming a concern for students of all ages:
Long Hours on Digital Devices
Tablets, laptops, and smartphones are staples in today’s classrooms. But staring at screens causes us to blink less often, leading to faster evaporation of tears and dry, irritated eyes.
Many kids don’t recognize this as abnormal — they just know their eyes hurt or their vision blurs by the end of the day.
Environmental Triggers
Classrooms with air conditioning or heating can create dry environments that make symptoms worse. Outdoor allergens common in Vancouver can also contribute to eye irritation and dryness.
Impact on Learning and Confidence
Dry eyes don’t just cause discomfort — they can interfere with focus, reading speed, and classroom participation. Kids might avoid schoolwork, become irritable, or struggle socially because their eyes feel constantly irritated.
How Shaughnessy Optometry Helps Students Beat Dry Eye
At Shaughnessy Optometry, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye in patients of all ages — including kids and teens. Here’s how we help students stay comfortable and successful in school:
Thorough Dry Eye Assessments
A standard vision screening often misses dry eye problems. That’s why we perform a comprehensive dry eye evaluation to identify the root cause of symptoms.
This includes examining tear quality, tear production, and the health of the eye surface to create a precise treatment plan.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Dry eye isn’t a one-size-fits-all problem. Depending on what’s causing your child’s symptoms, our treatments might include:
- Lubricating drops or gels
- Prescription anti-inflammatory drops
- Warm compress therapy to unblock glands
- Punctal plugs to help retain natural tears
- Education on taking screen breaks and practicing good blinking habits
Our goal is to relieve discomfort and restore clear vision so students can focus on school — not their eyes.
Long-Term Management and Education
Dry eye often needs ongoing care, especially in the school environment. We work with families to help kids:
- Maintain proper hydration
- Take breaks from screens every 20 minutes
- Use humidifiers at home during dry seasons
- Recognize early signs of dryness to avoid flare-ups
These simple steps can keep students comfortable and thriving all year long.
Signs Your Child May Have Dry Eye
Wondering if your child might be suffering from dry eye? Look out for these common signs:
- Complaints of burning, gritty, or itchy eyes
- Excessive tearing (eyes water as a response to dryness)
- Blurred vision, especially after reading or screen time
- Avoidance of reading, homework, or close-up work
- Redness or eye rubbing during the day
If you notice these symptoms, a professional evaluation is the best way to keep their vision clear and comfortable.
Give Your Child a Comfortable Start to the School Year
Dry eye doesn’t have to stand in the way of your child’s learning, confidence, or comfort. At Shaughnessy Optometry in Vancouver, we’re passionate about helping kids and teens see clearly and feel great — in and out of the classroom.
If your child struggles with eye irritation or blurry vision, book a dry eye assessment. Let’s help them start the school year with clear sight and a bright outlook!