7 Simple Suggestions to Relieve Dry Eye
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can cause discomfort, redness, and blurred vision. It occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears are of poor quality. While it’s best to consult with an eye care professional at Tres Vision Group for persistent symptoms, you can take several simple steps at home to alleviate mild to moderate dry eye symptoms. Here are seven tips to help you find relief:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain overall hydration levels, which can improve tear production. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily.
2. Modify Your Environment
Reduce exposure to wind and dry air by using a humidifier in your home or office. This can help maintain moisture in the air and prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly.
3. Take Breaks During Screen Time
Prolonged use of computers, smartphones, and tablets can lead to eye strain and dryness due to reduced blinking. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
4. Use Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter artificial tear drops can provide immediate relief by lubricating the eyes. Choose preservative-free varieties if you need to use them more than four times a day.
5. Adjust Your Diet
Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which help support tear production. Foods rich in omega-3 include fish such as salmon and sardines, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
6. Wear Sunglasses Outdoors
Wear sunglasses when you’re outside to protect your eyes from UV rays and wind. Choose glasses with wrap-around frames to shield your eyes from the sides as well.
7. Practice Good Eyelid Hygiene
Warm compresses and gentle eyelid scrubs can help release oils from the glands in your eyelids, improving the quality of your tears. This can be particularly beneficial if you have blepharitis, a common condition that contributes to dry eye.
Professional Treatment Is Available
If these simple suggestions do not sufficiently relieve your dry eye symptoms, it may be time to consider medical treatment to address your discomfort. Persistent dry eye can be a sign of underlying health issues, and a specialist at Tres Vision Group can provide the treatments and solutions to help you find lasting relief. LipiFlow is an especially popular and easy treatment to improve natural tear production for less discomfort.
If you are ready to meet with experienced, reputable eye doctors in Melbourne, Merritt Island, and Suntree, FL, for lasting relief, please schedule a consultation. Call (321) 984-3200 today.