How to Manage Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears. Without this moisture, your eyes dry out and itch. As you repeatedly rub your eyes, they become red and swollen. Commonly found in women, dry eye syndrome typically happens during menopause and also affects people who spend long periods of time in front of computers because this causes you to not blink. Dry eye syndrome is also found in extremely dry regions of the country. Oral contraceptive users, contact lens wearers and smokers have higher rates of dry eye syndrome. Medications such as antihistamines and antidepressants also cause dry eye syndrome. There is no cure for this condition, but you can manage your symptoms.

Instructions

• 1

  See your doctor. Make an appointment with your physician to have your condition diagnosed. There are certain tests the physician will perform to determine your level of tear production.

• 2

  Learn to manage your symptoms. Dry eye syndrome has no cure, so you have to approach your condition by attacking the symptoms.

• 3

  Use prescription medications. If your doctor prescribes medications, use them. There are prescription medications available that alleviate your symptoms by increasing tear production and keeping your eyes moist.

• 4

  Take out your contacts. Contacts are one of the main causes of dry eye syndrome. In addition, you cannot use eye drops and wear contacts. If you must wear contacts, use them only for a certain amount of time each day and then take them out. Do not sleep in your contacts.

• 5

  Avoid using over-the-counter eyedrops. Eye drops that eliminate redness actually work against you. Over the long run, these drops cause your eyes to become dependent in order to stay clear. Over-the-counter eye drops do not help you and you should not use them.

• 6

  Eat a healthy diet. Foods rich in essential fatty acids, such as salmon, will help boost tear production. It is also recommended that you take a daily dose of flaxseed oil.

• 7

  Consent to have surgery. In some cases, a simple surgical procedure that blocks the tear ducts from emptying keeps moisture in your eyes. There are risks associated with surgery, however. Also, some people do not benefit from this type of surgery. Speak with your physician to see if you are a good candidate, and weigh the risks versus the benefits and outcome.

• 8

  Drink water. It goes without saying, but staying hydrated keeps your body tissues moist and lubricated. This goes for your eyes, too. Drink at least eight glasses of water each day.