Tips, home remedies, and foods to manage dry eyes
Dry eye syndrome is a condition characterized by the tear glands not producing adequate fluid to keep the eyes lubricated. This condition can lead to symptoms such as scratchy eyes, eye fatigue, heavy eyelids, pain, light sensitivity, and even blurred vision. These can disrupt one’s daily schedule and be very painful, causing further distress. This article shares some home remedies that one can try to relieve the symptoms of dry eyes.
5 Tips and Home Remedies to Manage Dry Eye Syndrome
Use warm compresses
Warm compresses basically stimulate the tear glands to promote the production of tears. This can be a regular practice and can provide great relief when done every day.
Have a good night’s sleep
Lack of sleep can instigate dry eyes and eye fatigue in people who would not have the condition otherwise. It is recommended to take short breaks between screen time and get some shut-eye.
Use a humidifier
People who reside in a region that is dominated by dry and cold weather must invest in a humidifier for it retains the moisture in the air and helps relieve the discomfort caused by the dry weather.
Stay hydrated
An adequate intake of water is essential for everyone, but it’s especially important for patients with dry eye syndrome. Having enough water can further help to keep the eyes lubricated, which helps in soothing the dry eye symptoms.
Use eye drops or ointments
Any over-the-counter eye drops available can help soothe the dry eye syndrome and provide temporary relief. You can also opt for eye drops that induce artificial tears to lubricate the eyes; however, remember to buy the ones without preservatives.
Foods to Have for Dry Eye Syndrome
Foods that are a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids significantly help relieve the symptoms of dry eyes when eaten over a period of time. To ensure one get adequate amount of omega-3 fatty acids, one must include foods like salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, swordfish, cod liver oil, and caviar. If you do not consume seafood, it is advisable to turn to plant-based sources such as walnuts, flax and chia seeds, palm and soybean oil.
Can People with Dry Eye Syndrome Wear Contact Lenses?
If a patient with dry eyes needs to wear contact lenses, it shouldn’t be a problem at all. They only need to know which ones to choose. There are many brands out there that make contact lenses designed especially for people with dry eye syndrome. Some of the brands to watch out for in the said category include Dailies Total 1, Bausch + Lomb ULTRA, Biofinity Energys, and Acuvue Oasys.
Aging threatens the ocular surface homeostasis, changing the normal functioning of the lacrimal functional unit and eventually leading to signs and symptoms of dry eye. Age-related processes that take place within the crystalline lens lead to presbyopia and cataractogenesis. Revolutionary eye drops like Vuity from Allergan are now used to treat presbyopia mimicing the eye’s natural ability to focus, allowing for greater vision at near. Patients who have had LASIK may be able to benefit from VUITY, depending on age and the degree of presbyopia.
