5 Ways to Reduce Dry Eye Symptoms

Cooler weather means dryer air, which can affect your eyes in many ways including dry eye. Some common dry eye symptoms like persistent scratchiness, burning, and even excessive eye watering can be a sign of dry eye. Dry eyes can occur when tear production and drainage is not in balance. Some dry eye symptoms can be more common during season changes, but it can also be a chronic problem that requires specific medical treatment.

What causes Dry Eye?

Tears are key to keeping your eyes lubricated and healthy. Tear glands are located above your eyes and continuously supply tear fluid to help keep the surface of your eyes lubricated and protect them against infection.
Dry eye occurs when your tear glands don’t produce enough tears, or there is an imbalance in the makeup of your tears. Many factors can lead to dry eye including:

• • Long hours spent in front of a computer or smartphone screen.
  • Environmental changes in the air around you
  • Allergies
  • Over-regular use of contact lenses
  • Hormonal changes

What are the symptoms of Dry Eye?

• • Redness
  • Itchiness
  • Irritation
  • Dryness
  • Scratchy or sandy sensation
  • Light sensitivity
  • “Crusty” buildup on eyelids and eyelashes
  • Burning
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Watery eyes
  • Blurry Vision

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please consult your eye doctor. The condition of the surface of your eyes is directly linked to your eye care, and overall well-being. Some dry eye symptoms may resolve themselves, but some could be an indicator of a chronic condition that requires specific treatment with your eye doctor to prevent any long-term effects on your health and vision.

How to Prevent Dry Eye Symptoms

While some dry eye symptoms need expert care from an optometrist, here are a few steps to reduce symptoms of dry eyes:

Wear Glasses

Glasses can provide a shield against the drying effects of wind and other irritants in the air. Wraparound sunglasses can also be a good choice that also provides additional protection from the sun.

Take A Break from Digital Screens

Many studies have shown that increased use of digital screens for work, communication, and entertainment may contribute to dry eye. The easiest way to prevent digital eye strain is by limiting your screen time. However, with more people working from home, it may be hard to accomplish.

Taking frequent screen breaks, remembering to blink more often, and adjusting screen brightness to reduce harsh glare are all helpful tips to reduce digital eye strain and dry eye.

Use A Humidifier

Increasing the humidity in the air can help combat the dry air that is common in colder months. A humidifier adds moisture to dry indoor air. Use one in the places you spend the most time, such as your bedroom and workplace to keep your eyes happy.

Stay Hydrated

Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water every day. Dry eye occurs when there are not enough tears to nourish the eye. Tears wash away foreign material, help reduce eye infections, and are critical for providing clear vision. Dry eye is a symptom of dehydration, and the best treatment to rehydrate is by drinking plenty of water.

Talk to Your Eye Doctor about Eye Drops

Depending on the causes of your dry eyes, you could benefit from eye drops or artificial tears to lubricate your eyes. Eye drops help alleviate dry eye symptoms by lubricating the eye and washing away foreign materials. Talk to your eye doctor about over-the-counter eye drops or prescription eye drop options. Your optometrist may also recommend lifestyle changes, including to your work and dietary habits, to address the root cause of your dry eye problems.

Keep an eye on any changes in your vision

If you’re struggling with dry eye or noticing changes in your vision, it’s important to see your eye doctor. The sooner you choose to see an eye doctor, the better chance you will have of preventing any damage to your eyes and maintaining your health.

Dr. Tavel is committed to helping Hoosiers see better, look better and feel better. Schedule an annual eye exam online or by calling us at 844-GO-TAVEL.