Dry Eyes and What You Can Do About Them

Dry Eyes: Causes and Treatment Options

Dry eyes, also known as dry eye syndrome, occur when your eyes don't produce enough tears or produce tears that evaporate too quickly. This can lead to a number of symptoms, including:

* Stinging or burning sensation

* Itching

* Gritty feeling

* Blurred vision

* Difficulty wearing contact lenses

* Redness

* Watery eyes

Dry eyes can be caused by a number of factors, including:

* Aging: Tear production naturally decreases as we age.

* Environmental factors: Dry air, wind, dust, and smoke can all contribute to dry eyes.

* Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and thyroid disease, can cause dry eyes.

* Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, can cause dry eyes as a side effect.

* Contact lens wear: Wearing contact lenses can sometimes lead to dry eyes.

* LASIK surgery: LASIK surgery can sometimes cause temporary dry eyes.

There are a number of treatments available for dry eyes, depending on the underlying cause:

* Artificial tears: Artificial tears are lubricating drops that can help to relieve the symptoms of dry eyes.

* Prescription eye drops: Prescription eye drops may be necessary if artificial tears are not effective. These drops can help to increase tear production or prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.

* Punctal plugs: Punctal plugs are small devices that can be inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining away.

* Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a tear duct problem or to restore the surface of the eye.

If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eyes, talk to your eye doctor to get a proper diagnosis and find the best treatment for you.

Here are some additional tips that may help to relieve dry eyes:

* Avoid dry air: Use a humidifier in your home and at work, and avoid spending too much time in windy or dusty environments.

* Take breaks from screens: Staring at a computer or phone screen for too long can contribute to dry eyes. Take frequent breaks and look away from the screen every 20 minutes or so.

* Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help to keep your eyes moist.

* Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help to improve the quality of your tears.

* Get regular exercise: Exercise can help to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, both of which can contribute to dry eyes.

* Avoid smoking: Smoking can irritate your eyes and worsen dry eyes.

By following these tips, you can help to relieve the symptoms of dry eyes and keep your eyes healthy.