Contrary to the popular expression, you shouldn’t save your tears. Your tears play an important role in your eye health and comfort. Issues with tear film or tear production can result in dry eye disease and impact eye health and vision. Here, Dr. George G. Khouri of Palm Beach Eye Center discusses how to reduce dry eye symptoms at home and when to seek professional treatment.
What Is Dry Eye Disease?
Every time you blink, your eyes get coated in tears. This tear film has three layers:
- An oil layer
- A water layer
- A mucus layer
These layers work together to protect the eye and help it function properly. If there are issues with the tear film or the eyes are not making enough tears, then dry eyes can result. Dry eyes can have a number of symptoms, including the following:
- Stinging eyes
- Blurry vision
- Feeling like something is in the eyes
- Mucus around the eyes
- Red eyes
- Irritated eyes
- Pain when wearing contact lenses
- Excessive tears in the eyes
Dry eyes can have a number of causes, including the following:
- Advancing age
- Hormonal changes
- Certain diseases
- Certain medications
- Other eye conditions
- Environmental conditions like exposure to air conditioning, smoke, wind or a dry climate
- Activities like watching television, staring at a computer screen or reading
- Prolonged use of contact lenses
- Eye surgery
How To Reduce Dry Eye Symptoms at Home
You can take steps to reduce dry eye symptoms at home. However, even if you are reducing your symptoms at home, you should still discuss your case with your eye doctor. If left untreated, severe dry eyes can cause serious issues. At home, you can reduce dry eyes by doing the following:
- Take frequent breaks from screens and reading
- Use thick eye drops before bed
- Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into your diet or as a dietary supplement
- Try to avoid conditions that can cause dry eyes, like smoke or wind
- Wearing eye protection outside
- Use a humidifier
- Avoid pointing a hair dryer or fan directly at your eyes
- Massaging your eyelids
- Applying a warm compress to your eyelids
When To Seek Professional Treatment for Dry Eye Symptoms
If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, you should see an eye doctor. Dry eyes can have a number of causes and treatment will vary depending on the cause. Severe dry eye or dry eye caused by other health conditions can have serious consequences if left untreated. Do not risk your health and your vision. Seek professional treatment for dry eyes.
Contact Us
You don’t have to live with ongoing dry eye symptoms. To learn more about your dry eye treatment options contact Palm Beach Eye Center today and schedule a consultation.
