What Does a Tear Film Evaluation Diagnose?

A tear film evaluation is a specialized diagnostic assessment that helps eye doctors identify the underlying causes of dry eye and other surface eye conditions. At Brampton Eye Clinic, this evaluation plays a key role in creating personalized treatment plans that improve comfort, clarity, and long-term eye health.

Understanding the Tear Film

The tear film is a thin, protective layer that coats the surface of your eyes. It is essential for keeping the eyes lubricated, washing away debris, and providing clear vision. The tear film has three main layers:

• Oil (lipid) layer - prevents tears from evaporating too quickly
• Water (aqueous) layer - hydrates and nourishes the eye
• Mucus layer - helps tears spread evenly across the eye

When any of these layers are compromised, symptoms can develop - even if your eyes appear normal during a basic exam.

Dry Eye Disease

One of the most common diagnoses from a tear film evaluation is dry eye disease. This condition occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Testing helps determine whether dry eye is caused by low tear production, poor tear quality, or inflammation.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

The meibomian glands produce the oil layer of the tear film. If these glands become blocked or inflamed, tears evaporate rapidly, leading to irritation and fluctuating vision. A tear film evaluation can identify gland dysfunction before permanent damage occurs.

Evaporative vs. Aqueous Dry Eye

Not all dry eye is the same. Tear film testing distinguishes between evaporative dry eye (often related to oil gland issues) and aqueous-deficient dry eye (linked to reduced tear production). This distinction is critical for selecting the right treatment.

Inflammatory Eye Surface Conditions

Chronic inflammation on the surface of the eye can destabilize the tear film and worsen symptoms over time. Tear film evaluations can detect inflammatory markers that may not be visible during a routine eye exam.

Contact Lens Intolerance

If contact lenses feel uncomfortable or dry by the end of the day, the tear film may be the problem. A tear film evaluation helps determine whether lens wear is contributing to tear instability or if treatment is needed to improve comfort.

Take the Next Step Toward Healthier Eyes

A tear film evaluation is a powerful diagnostic tool that reveals much more than just “dry eyes.” It helps diagnose specific tear film imbalances, gland dysfunction, inflammation, and environmental factors affecting your eye comfort and vision. By understanding exactly what’s happening on the surface of your eyes, your optometrist can recommend treatments that provide lasting relief.

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with tear film evaluation at Brampton Eye Clinic to identifying the cause of your eye discomfort. Visit our office in Brampton, Ontario, or call (647) 348-9926 to book an appointment today.