How to Cure Chronic Severe Dry Eyes

Chronic severe dry eyes occur due to a decrease in tear production. Tear is a combination of water, proteins, antibodies, mucus and oil. The causes can be due to biological or environmental conditions, such as the use of contact lenses, Lasik surgeries, allergies, deficiency in estrogen, hormone replacement therapy, eye infections and birth control pills. Symptoms include stringy mucus, light sensitivity, tearing, blurred vision, and burning. The Schirmer tear test (doctor measures tear drops) is one test used to diagnose the condition. There is no cure, but relief such as medication, ointments and surgery can help alleviate the symptoms.

Things You'll Need

• Ointments
• Eye drops (prescribed or non-prescribed)
• Topical steroids
• Prescription Medications
• Humidifiers
• Special eyeglasses with moisture chambers

Show More

Instructions

Non-Surgical Treatment

• 1

  Use non-prescription ointments and eye drops, to alleviate the symptoms. The ointment is best used at nights, to prevent eyes drying out during sleep.

• 2

  Use prescription eye drops for chronic dry eyes. It is recommended by doctors, because it allows the eyes to produce its own tears.

• 3

  Use topical steroids, or medications prescribed by a physician. These are usually recommended based on the severity of the condition.

• 4

  Try to reduce air from blowing into the eyes, such as hair dryers, car heaters, fans etc. Wear glasses if it is windy, such as the wrap-around style, to reduce the wind getting into the eyes. Also, wear goggles if swimming.

• 5

  Increase the moisture to indoor air by using a humidifier, or wear glasses specially designed with a moisture chamber positioned around the eye, to increase humidity. These can be worn day and night.

• 6

  Do not irritate the eyes by rubbing them.

• 7

  Use eye drops before irritations rather than after, and avoid activities that can make the problem worse.

• 8

  Blink more regularly to spread the tears evenly. Take regular five minute breaks per hour, while visual intense tasks are being performed. Rest eyes regularly, by closing the eyelids for several seconds on a regular basis.

• 9

  Avoid smoke in your environment, because it makes dry eyes worse.