Make Dry Eyes A Thing Of The Past With These Remedies

A recent study has found that a staggering 4.88million people in America suffer with dry eye syndrome.¹ This condition greatly impacts someones ability to carry out daily tasks and cases are increasing. Thankfully recent advancements have made this condition easier to live with. To view treatments available for dry eyes start an online search today.

What Exactly Is Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes is a common condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears to stay moisturized.² This leads to a feeling of discomfort and irritation in the eyes, and can even result in damage to the surface of the eyes if left untreated. Dry eyes can occur for a variety of reasons, but the most common cause is a decrease in tear production as a result of aging.

The tears produced by our eyes are a complex mixture of oils, water, and mucus. This mixture helps to lubricate and protect the eyes, as well as remove debris and bacteria. When the eyes do not produce enough tears, they become dry and uncomfortable, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, and a burning sensation. In severe cases, dry eyes can also lead to vision problems, as the dryness can cause scratches on the surface of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye.

What Causes Dry Eyes That We Know Of?

Aging: As we age, our tear production decreases, making us more susceptible to dry eyes.³
Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and birth control pills, can reduce tear production and cause dry eyes
Environmental factors: Exposure to wind, dry air, or high levels of air pollution can cause dry eyes
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and hormonal imbalances, can also contribute to dry eyes
Computer use: Spending long periods of time looking at a computer screen can cause eye strain and contribute to dry eyes.

Who Is Most At Risk?

Dry eyes is a condition that affects both men and women, but women tend to experience it more frequently. This is likely due to hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menopause, which can reduce tear production and lead to dry eyes. Men still get dry eyes with approximately 1.68million men over 50 having the affects of this disorder.⁴

What Treatments Are Available?

Treatments for dry eyes typically involve increasing tear production or adding artificial tears to the eyes to provide moisture. The following are some of the most common treatments for dry eyes.

Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tear drops can be used to lubricate the eyes and provide relief from dryness and discomfort
Prescription eye drops: Prescription eye drops, such as Restasis, can be used to increase tear production and relieve dry eyes
Warm compresses: Placing a warm compress over the eyes can help to improve tear production and relieve dry eyes.
Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your lifestyle, such as using a humidifier or wearing protective eyewear when outside, can help to reduce the symptoms of dry eyes.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to improve tear production or repair any damage to the surface of the eyes.

What About Diet And Lifestyle Choices?

Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseed oil, have been shown to help improve tear production and relieve dry eyes.
Vitamin A: Vitamin A is important for the health of the eyes and can help to improve tear production and relieve dry eyes.
Warm compresses: As mentioned above, warm compresses can help to improve tear production and relieve dry eyes.
Blink more frequently: Blink more frequently to help distribute tears evenly across the eyes and provide relief from dryness and discomfort.
Limit screen time: Spending less time looking at screens, such as computers and televisions, can help to reduce the symptoms of dry eyes.

Get Help For Your Dry Eyes Today

If you’re struggling to deal with a dry eyes condition you’re not alone. There are many specialists out there ready to help and treat your condition with a large array of treatments and lifestyle advice to try. To see dry eyes treatments available start an online search today.

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