Sore Eye Remedies

Sore eyes are usually the result of dryness. Eyedrops and other medications are used to provide immediate relief for sore dry eyes, but it is more beneficial to find a treatment that will restore moisture to the eyes instead. Home remedies can help you to produce your own moisture for your eyes that will relieve the soreness without eyedrops.

Diet

• A healthy diet is one way to restore eye health. Eating a diet that has omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce eye dryness by as much as 60 percent. Medications that are used to treat high blood pressure and other conditions can cause the eyes to become dry as well. A healthy diet can manage these conditions without the need for medications.

Rest

• Sleep directly affects how your eyes feel. When you get an adequate amount of rest for your body every day, you will also give your eyes a break and the rest that they need. During sleep, the eyes are coated with a moisturizing film that protects them. This film must be restored every day for optimum eye health.
  Turn fans and air conditioners off at night as much as possible or make sure that they are not blowing directly in your face. Close your eyes during the day when they are sore and burning. Giving your eyes a rest may be all that is needed to eliminate the soreness.

Medications

• A doctor should treat sore eyes that are the result of an eye infection. Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is the result of a bacterial infection that will not be cured without treatment. Although the eye condition is not serious, it must be treated to relieve the pain and prevent the infection from spreading to others in your household. Conjunctivitis can be the result of a viral infection, bacterial infection or allergies. Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are contagious and should be treated immediately.
  Bacterial conjunctivitis will require an antibiotic medication to eliminate the bacteria causing sore eyes. Viral conjunctivitis will run its course, and over-the- counter eyedrops can relieve some of the discomfort that is caused by the eye infection.
  Sore eyes that are caused by dry eyes can benefit from over-the-counter eyedrops that provide the moisture normally provided by tears. These drops can provide relief for sore eyes that are dry and burning.

Conjunctivitis Prevention

• Bacterial conjunctivitis can be spread very easily by touching the eyes with hands that have been exposed to the bacteria. Wash your hands frequently and refrain from rubbing your eyes with your hands. Viral conjunctivitis can be spread in the same manner. Using glasses, microscopes or other items that have been used by others is another common way to spread this infection. Wash lenses thoroughly whenever using equipment and do not share eye makeup or eyewear.