Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition affecting millions of people in the U.S. alone. Although dry eye syndrome can cause you to experience many unwanted symptoms, there are ways to treat it.
There are lifestyle changes you can make on your own that may be able to improve your symptoms. However, if your symptoms are persistent or severe, visit your eye doctor for additional help.
Keep reading to learn more about how to get rid of your dry eyes!
Change Your Habits
Your dry eye may be linked to your lifestyle choices. Smoking, for example, is a two-hit punch to your vision. Not only does tobacco cause countless health and vision problems, but it can also irritate your eyes when it blows into your face.
Drinking water is also essential for improving the moisturization of your eyes. Your body needs water for a lot of things, especially producing tears. Make sure you are drinking enough water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Screen use is also a common factor in dry eye, and it is getting more challenging to avoid. Many people need computers for work and frequently use them for entertainment.
When looking at screens, people often forget to blink as frequently. If you can’t limit your screen time as much as you’d like, it’s best to follow the 20/20/20. Set a timer for 20 minutes. When it goes off, stare at a spot 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
This process will remind you to blink, which will help prevent the surface of your eyes from drying out.
Protect Yourself Outdoors
Sunlight is good for you, but too much is not good for your vision. UV radiation can cause many different problems.
Limiting your time in the sun is a good idea, but not always doable. When you go out in the sun, wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection.
Pair your sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat to give your eyes even more shade.
Modify Your Home
The place you spend most of your time might be causing your dry eye. Dust and dander can irritate your eyes. Wipe down surfaces with a wet cloth often to cut down on allergens.
Find and seal drafts, and try not to use air conditioning. You can also use an air purifier and a humidifier to keep the air clean and humid.
Artificial Tears
If these remedies are not enough, you may want to try other methods to get relief. Warm compresses are great for increasing the production of oils in your eyelids to improve dry eye symptoms.
Artificial lubricating drops are essential for quick, safe relief from dry eye symptoms. If the problem persists, it may be time to get help from your eye care professional.
Get Help From a Professional
If your dry eye symptoms are not improving with at-home treatment, schedule an appointment with a dry eye specialists in Austin, TX, at Westlake Eye Specialists. A professional eye doctor can help find the root cause of your dry eye and develop a treatment plan to improve your symptoms.
Whether you need medication, special treatment, or dry eye therapy, your eye doctor can determine a solution to help improve your symptoms.
Is it time for you to get help with your dry eye syndrome? Schedule an appointment at Westlake Eye Specialists in Austin, TX, today!
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