Eye dryness is a condition that can be caused by several different things, including your environment, medications, and underlying health conditions. Though it may not be serious, it can be uncomfortable and lead to other problems if left untreated.
But because you don’t want that happening, it’s essential to know how to treat eye dryness when it does occur. Here are ten tips to help you do just that:
1. Use artificial tears
If your eyes are feeling dry, one of the best things you can do is use artificial tears. These over-the-counter solutions can help lubricate your eyes and make them feel more comfortable.
2. Limit your time spent in front of screens
Whether it’s your computer, phone, or TV, spending too much time looking at screens can contribute to eye dryness. So, if your eyes are getting irritated, take some breaks throughout the day and limit your screen time overall.
3. Adjust the humidity in your home
If the air in your home is too dry, it can exacerbate eye dryness. Use a humidifier to help add some moisture back into the air and make your eyes feel more comfortable.
4. Blink frequently
When you’re focused on something, it’s easy to forget to blink. But not flashing enough can lead to dry eyes. So, make a conscious effort to blink more often, especially when looking at screens or reading for long periods.
5. Wear sunglasses or glasses with anti-reflective lenses
Sunglasses can help protect your eyes from the elements, including wind and dust. And if you wear glasses, ensure they have anti-reflective lenses to help reduce eye irritation.
6. Use a warm compress
If your eyes are feeling especially dry or irritated, a warm compress can help. Place the compress on your eyelids for a few minutes to help soothe the discomfort.
7. Avoid smoking
Smoking is a known irritant and can contribute to eye dryness. So, if you smoke cigarettes, it’s essential to quit — for the sake of your eyes and overall health.
8. Avoid air blowing in your eyes
Whether it’s a fan or the wind, having air blowing directly into your eyes can worsen dryness. So, if you can, avoid it.
9. Don’t wear contact lenses for too long
If you wear contacts, be sure to take them out before your eyes start to feel dry. And limit your wearing time to no more than eight hours per day to give your eyes a break.
10. See your doctor
If you’ve tried all of the above and are still experiencing eye dryness, it’s essential to see your doctor. There may be an underlying condition that needs to be treated. In the meantime, they can also prescribe artificial tears or other medication to help relieve your symptoms.
Treating eye dryness is essential to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable. Following these tips can help reduce discomfort and keep your eyes healthy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing eye dryness, don’t ignore it. Use these tips to help you find relief and see your doctor if the problem persists.
