Dry eyes can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and, in some cases, debilitating. The sensation of having gritty, itchy, or burning eyes is common among people of all ages, and it can result from a variety of causes, including environmental factors, lifestyle habits, and underlying health conditions. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce dry eyes and improve comfort.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the causes of dry eyes and the most effective ways to manage and prevent this condition.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
Before we look at the solutions, it’s important to understand what leads to dry eyes. There are two main types of causes:
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Decreased Tear Production: Your eyes need a steady supply of tears to stay moist and comfortable. If your tear production decreases, either due to age, health conditions (such as autoimmune diseases or diabetes), or medications (like antihistamines or blood pressure medications), you may experience dry eyes.
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Increased Tear Evaporation: If your tears evaporate too quickly, your eyes may become dry. This can happen if you don’t blink frequently enough, are exposed to air conditioning or heating, or spend long hours looking at screens.
Now that we know what causes dry eyes, let’s explore what you can do to relieve this discomfort.
Use Artificial Tears or Lubricating Eye Drops
The first and most common treatment for dry eyes is using artificial tears, which are available over-the-counter. These lubricating eye drops can help replace the moisture your eyes are lacking and provide relief from dryness. Depending on your needs, you may need to use preservative-free drops to avoid further irritation, especially if you require frequent applications.
For more severe cases, your eye doctor may prescribe stronger eye drops or gels to help manage the condition.
1. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is a common contributor to dry eyes, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps maintain the moisture balance in your eyes and prevents the evaporation of tears. Aim for at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day, or more if you’re active or live in a hot climate.
2. Use a Humidifier
If you live in a dry or air-conditioned environment, the air can cause your tears to evaporate quickly, exacerbating dry eye symptoms. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping prevent the evaporation of tears. Using a humidifier, especially in your bedroom while you sleep, can be an easy and effective way to alleviate dry eyes.
3. Take Regular Breaks from Screens
Extended periods of staring at a computer, phone, or TV screen can contribute to dry eyes, as we tend to blink less frequently when focusing on a screen. This lack of blinking can cause the tear film to break down and lead to dry, irritated eyes.
To prevent this, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This will help your eyes blink naturally and refresh the tear film, reducing dryness and irritation.
4. Adjust Your Environment
Dry, windy, or smoky environments can irritate your eyes and increase dryness. If you are outdoors on a windy day, wearing sunglasses can protect your eyes from drying out. Also, avoid sitting directly in front of fans, air conditioners, or heaters that can contribute to tear evaporation. If possible, adjust your workspace or home environment to reduce exposure to these elements.
5. Apply Warm Compresses
Applying a warm compress to your closed eyelids can help stimulate the production of natural oils in your tear glands, reducing dryness. The heat helps loosen any blockages in the oil glands along the eyelid margin. To do this, soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring out the excess water, and place it over your closed eyes for 5 to 10 minutes. This simple remedy can provide relief and is particularly beneficial if you have meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a common cause of dry eyes.
6. Blink More Often
We tend to blink less frequently when focused on tasks like reading or using electronic devices. This can result in inadequate tear distribution across the surface of your eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more frequently, especially when you’re looking at a screen or reading, to help refresh the tear film and prevent dryness.
7. Use Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Diet can play a role in maintaining healthy tear production. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like salmon, flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve tear production and reduce dry eye symptoms. Consider incorporating more omega-3-rich foods into your diet or taking supplements to support your eye health.
8. Consult Your Eye Doctor
If home remedies and lifestyle changes don’t provide adequate relief, it’s time to consult an eye specialist. An ophthalmologist or optometrist can help identify the underlying cause of your dry eyes and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as:
- Prescription eye drops: These can increase tear production or reduce inflammation in the eyes.
- Punctal plugs: Small devices inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too quickly.
- Therapeutic procedures: For more severe cases, your doctor may suggest treatments like LipiFlow, which uses heat and gentle pressure to unclog blocked glands.
9. Protect Your Eyes from Allergies
Seasonal allergies or allergies caused by dust, pet dander, or pollen can trigger dry eye symptoms. If allergies are contributing to your dry eyes, you may benefit from antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines. It’s also a good idea to avoid known allergens and wash your hands frequently to prevent further irritation.
FINALLY…
Dry eyes are a common problem that can significantly affect your quality of life. By following the tips mentioned above, you can manage and reduce dry eye symptoms. Remember, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional if your symptoms persist or worsen, as untreated dry eyes can lead to complications.
At Tus Ojos Eyecare, we offer expert care for dry eyes and a variety of other eye conditions. Contact us today at our Cherry Hill, Camden, or Philadelphia locations to schedule a consultation and find the best treatment for your eye health.
TUS OJOS/ SMMR