Dry Eyes: How Do I Manage Them?

Dry eyes, also known as dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes are unable to produce enough tears to keep the surface of the eye moist and comfortable. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including burning, itching, redness, and blurry vision.

Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available for dry eyes, including artificial tears, prescription eye drops, and lifestyle changes.

In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most effective ways to manage dry eyes and reduce your symptoms.

Tips to manage dry eyes

Here's a list of the most common and eye care experts-approved methods to avoid getting dry eyes:

Artificial Tears

One of the most common treatments for dry eyes is the use of artificial tears. These are over-the-counter eye drops that are designed to lubricate the surface of the eye and provide temporary relief from dryness and irritation. There are many different brands and types of artificial tears available, so it's important to choose one that is appropriate for your specific needs. Some artificial tears are designed for use during the day, while others are meant to be used at night. Your eye doctor can help you choose the best type of artificial tears for your individual needs.

Note: Do not purchase just any kind of eye drop or artificial tears. We strongly recommend for you to consult your eye doctor before making any decisions. 

Prescription Eye Drops

In some cases, artificial tears may not be enough to manage your dry eye symptoms. In these cases, your eye doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops to help reduce inflammation and increase tear production. These prescription eye drops may contain steroids, antibiotics, or immunomodulators, depending on the cause of your dry eyes. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when using prescription eye drops, as they can have side effects and may interact with other medications you are taking.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to using artificial tears and prescription eye drops, there are also several lifestyle changes you can make to help manage your dry eyes. These include:

Blinking more often

When you stare at a computer screen or other digital device for long periods of time, you may forget to blink. This can lead to dry eyes. To prevent this, try to blink more often or use a reminder app to prompt you to blink every few minutes.

Increasing humidity

Dry air can make your eyes feel even drier. Using a humidifier in your home or office can help increase the humidity in the air and reduce your symptoms.

Taking breaks

If you spend a lot of time reading, working on a computer, or doing other activities that require intense focus, it's important to take breaks every 20 minutes or so. This can help reduce eye strain and prevent dry eyes.

Avoiding irritants

Certain environmental factors can make dry eyes worse, such as smoke, dust, and wind. Try to avoid these irritants as much as possible.

Eating a healthy diet

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish, nuts, and seeds, may help reduce inflammation and improve tear production.

The Takeaway

Dry eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are many treatments available that can help reduce your symptoms. Whether you opt for artificial tears, prescription eye drops, or lifestyle changes, it's important to work closely with your eye doctor to find the best treatment plan for your individual needs. With the right approach, you can manage your dry eyes and enjoy clear, comfortable vision.

Stay tuned for more information on eye health and eye care.